Anthracnose is a common and potentially devastating plant disease caused by various fungal pathogens. It affects a wide range of plants, including fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants. The disease can lead to significant economic losses in agriculture and horticulture. This article provides an overview of anthracnose, its symptoms, causes, and management strategies.
What is Anthracnose?
Anthracnose is a term used to describe a group of diseases caused by fungi belonging to the genera Colletotrichum, Glomerella, and Neoscytalidium. These pathogens infect plants through wounds or natural openings and can cause symptoms that vary depending on the plant species and the specific fungus involved.
Symptoms of Anthracnose
Leaf Spots: One of the most common symptoms is the appearance of dark, sunken spots on leaves. These spots can be circular or irregular and may have a yellow halo around them.
Fruit Rot: On fruits, anthracnose can cause sunken, dark lesions that eventually lead to fruit decay. The lesions may have a characteristic pink or orange spore mass.
Stem Canker: The disease can also cause lesions on stems and branches, leading to dieback and reduced plant vigor.
Flower Blight: In some cases, anthracnose can infect flowers, causing them to wilt and die prematurely.
