Trichophytosis

The causative agent of the disease is the ascomycete fungus Trichophyton mentagrophytes. While traditionally recognized as a zoonotic dermatophyte, in agronomic practice, it can act as a pathogen colonizing organic debris and weakened plant tissues. This type of mycosis leads to tissue degradation and necrosis, affecting the overall physiological state of the host plant.

In commercial agriculture, this pathogen is most often identified on ornamental plants grown in greenhouses and occasionally on forage crops kept in poor storage conditions. Its ability to survive in soil and on agricultural tools as spores or mycelium allows it to persist in a greenhouse environment for long periods, posing a constant threat to new crops.

Symptoms of the infection manifest as localized necrotic spots that gradually expand and coalesce. Affected tissues often show a visible whitish or yellowish mycelial mat. As the infection progresses, the tissues lose their integrity, become soft, and may develop secondary rot, which ultimately disrupts the normal metabolism and growth of the host plant.

Environmental conditions that favor the development of Trichophyton mentagrophytes include warm temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C and high relative humidity levels. Poor ventilation and overcrowding of plants are key factors that facilitate the rapid spread of fungal spores. Contaminated irrigation water and the use of non-sterilized planting media are common routes of disease introduction.

Effective management and prevention strategies include:

• Strict sanitation protocols for greenhouse equipment and surfaces.
• Optimizing air circulation and humidity levels to prevent favorable conditions for fungal growth.
• Removal and safe disposal of all plant debris showing signs of infection.
• Routine sterilization of growing media and soil mixtures.
• Targeted application of fungicides in cases where the infection threshold is exceeded.