The research community in Kerala recently made an unprecedented discovery, unearthing two new species of fungi from the Ganoderma genus. This discovery has considerable implications, particularly because these fungi appear to play a central role in causing coconut stem rot disease, wreaking havoc on coconut crops across India.
Identification of Two New Fungi Species
Kerala’s researchers have identified two new fungi species, namely Ganoderma keralense and G. pseudoapplanatum. Intriguingly, these species show a strong connection with the occurrence of coconut stem rot disease.
A Broad-Spectrum Disease
Coconut stem rot is known by various names throughout India. It’s referred to as Ganoderma wilt in Andhra Pradesh, Anaberoga in Karnataka, and Thanjavur wilt in Tamil Nadu, among others. This infestation primarily begins at the plant’s roots and manifests via visible symptoms such as discoloration and rotting of the stem and leaves.
The Progression and Impact of the Disease
As the disease progresses, it severely impacts the plant’s fruiting capabilities, leading to decreased flowering and nut set. In the final stage, the disease culminates in the death of the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera). There’s also noticeable reddish-brown oozing from the plant, a phenomenon only reported in India so far.
Once a plant contracts the disease, recovery is extremely unlikely. By 2017 estimates, approximately 12 million individuals in India relied on coconut farming for their livelihoods, underlining the fact that this disease leads to substantial losses.
Another sign of infection is the emergence of shelf-like “basidiomata.” These structures are essentially the reproductive or fruiting parts of the fungus and make themselves apparent on tree trunks.
About Fungi: Single-Celled Organisms to Complex Multi-Cellular Structures
Fungi are a diverse group of organisms that can exist as single-celled structures or as complex multicellular organisms. They inhabit almost every environment, with the majority found on land – particularly in soil or plant material.
Known as decomposers, a subset of fungi thrives in soil or on dead plant matter. They play a crucial role in carbon cycling and the recycling of other elements.
However, not all fungi are benign. Some become parasitic, inflicting diseases on their host plants. Common plant diseases include mildews, rusts, scabs, and cankers. A small number of fungi species even cause diseases in animals, while others, such as the ones causing athlete’s foot, ringworm, and thrush, affect humans.
In essence, the discovery of these two new fungi species associated with coconut stem rot disease is significant. It opens up avenues for further research into ways to mitigate the destructive impact of this disease on coconut farming in India.
(Source: TH)
