Sympatric divergence of the ergot fungus, Claviceps purpurea, populations infecting agricultural and nonagricultural grasses in North America.

ABSTRACT: The ergot diseases of agricultural and nonagricultural grasses are caused by the infection of Claviceps spp. (Hypocreales, Ascomycota) on florets, producing dark spur-like sclerotia on spikes that are toxic to humans and animals, leading to detrimental impacts on agriculture and economy due to the downgrading of cereal grains, import-export barriers, reduced yield, and ecological concerns. At least seven phylogenetic lineages (phylogenetic species) were identified within the premolecular concept of C. purpurea s.l. (sensu lato) in agricultural areas and vicinities in Canada and the Western United States. Claviceps purpurea s.s (sensu stricto) remained as the most prevalent species with a wide host range, including cereal crops, native, invasive, and weedy grasses. The

SUBMITTER: Liu M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7790621 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature