Molecular Pathogens 2024, Vol.15, No.3, 155-169 http://microbescipublisher.com/index.php/mp 157 plant health is crucial for developing effective control strategies. The research highlights the need for detailed investigations into both the biological aspects of the fungus and the environmental factors that contribute to disease outbreaks. Effective management of PM in cucurbits could greatly enhance crop yield and quality, which is vital for agricultural productivity. The study underscores the importance of integrated disease management strategies that combine cultural, biological, and chemical approaches to control the spread of PM in susceptible crops. 2.2 Causal fungal species associated with PM in Cucurbitaceae The main causal agent of cucurbit PM is Podosphaera xanthii (synonymP. fusca), which is considered one of the most important limiting factors for cucurbit production worldwide (Figure 2) (Pérez-García et al., 2009). Other species such as Golovinomyces cichoracearumhave also been identified as pathogens causing PM in cucurbits, although Podosphaera xanthii (P. xanthii) is the predominant species (Křístková et al., 2009; Aguiar et al., 2012). Figure 2 Diagram depicting the life cycle of P. fusca(Adopted from Pérez-García et al., 2009) Image caption: This diagram illustrates the comprehensive life cycle of P. fusca, detailing both sexual and asexual stages. Starting with spore landing on a susceptible host, the figure shows the development of a germ tube and primary appressorium, followed by the formation of primary and secondary haustoria within the host's epidermal cells. The lifecycle progresses to the branching of hyphae and the vertical emergence of conidiophores, which produce chains of ovoid-shaped conidia. These stages culminate in the formation of the characteristic white mycelial mat on the plant surface, visibly indicating PM infection (Adapted from Pérez-García et al., 2009) 2.3 Symptoms and diagnosis of PM in different Cucurbitaceae species The initial symptoms of PM in cucurbits include circular or irregular white powdery areas on both surfaces of the leaves. As the disease progresses, the fungal mycelia can cover entire leaves, petioles, and stems, resulting in leaf yellowing and senescence but not necessarily defoliation (Liang et al., 2020). The detailed description of the life cycle of P. fusca provided by Pérez-García et al. (2009) is essential for developing targeted and effective management strategies for PM in cucurbits. Understanding the developmental stages of the fungus, from spore germination to mycelial expansion, is crucial for timing fungicidal applications and implementing cultural practices that can disrupt the pathogen's growth and reproduction. This comprehensive study of the pathogen's biology could aid researchers and agricultural practitioners in devising more sustainable and integrated disease management practices that reduce dependency on chemical controls and favor agricultural sustainability.
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