Radiomycetaceae

The Radiomycetaceae family belongs to the order Mucorales. These fungi are predominantly soil-borne, playing a key role in the decomposition of organic matter. However, under specific circumstances, they can act as opportunistic plant pathogens, leading to significant losses in agricultural settings, particularly post-harvest.

The pathogens are categorized as zygomycetes, characterized by rapid vegetative growth. They reproduce through sporangiospores, which are easily disseminated by wind or physical contact. In agronomy, they are frequently studied due to their ability to colonize weakened or damaged plant tissue, causing rapid tissue degradation.

Typical hosts for these fungi include vegetables, tubers, and various fruits. The disease often targets plants that have suffered from mechanical injuries, frost damage, or excessive waterlogging. These wounds act as entry points, allowing the fungus to penetrate and establish its mycelial network within the plant tissues.

The primary symptom is the development of extensive, fluffy, white or greyish fungal growth covering the surface of the affected plant parts. This is followed by rapid decay, leading to the collapse of cell structures and the production of a fermented or putrid odor. The infection can spread rapidly through contact between healthy and diseased tissues.

Environmental conditions conducive to the development of Radiomycetaceae include high ambient humidity (exceeding 85%) and warm temperatures. In storage facilities, inadequate ventilation is the primary factor that triggers outbreaks, as moisture accumulation facilitates the germination of sporangiospores and secondary infection cycles.

Integrated disease management strategies include:

• Maintaining strict sanitation protocols in warehouses and storage facilities.
• Ensuring proper air circulation and temperature control to keep produce dry.
• Implementing careful harvesting practices to minimize mechanical damage to crops.
• Applying preventive fungicide treatments in fields where the disease history is high.