Sporormiaceae

The Sporormiaceae family belongs to the order Pleosporales within the class Dothideomycetes. While these fungi are primarily recognized as coprophilous organisms that thrive on herbivore dung, they are also capable of acting as opportunistic pathogens or saprotrophs on various agricultural crops and forage grasses, especially when plants are under environmental stress.

The type of disease associated with this family typically manifests as necrosis or surface mold. The pathogen infects plant tissues through existing injuries or weakened areas, initiating a process of cellular degradation that can compromise the structural integrity and nutritional value of the affected plant material.

Susceptible crops include a range of cereals and fodder grasses, particularly those stored under humid conditions. The development and spread of the fungi are heavily dependent on moisture levels and moderate temperatures. Poor field ventilation and high humidity are the primary catalysts that allow these pathogens to propagate rapidly across a stand.

Symptoms of infection are characterized by the emergence of small, black fruiting bodies (perithecia) on the plant surface. Affected areas may show signs of discoloration, often turning black or olive, followed by tissue softening. If left unchecked, these symptoms can lead to significant biomass loss and reduced feed quality.

Effective management strategies focus on rigorous agricultural practices, such as ensuring proper aeration for stored fodder and maintaining optimal field hygiene. Preventive measures include preventing water stagnation, timely harvesting, and, in severe cases, the application of targeted fungicides to limit the growth of the fungal mycelium and prevent further infection.