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Published on: November 25, 2016
Floral Mimicry Induced by Mummy-Berry Fungus Exploits Host's Pollinators as Vectors
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|May 24, 1985
Summary
Blueberry and huckleberry leaves infected by Monilinia spp. become attractive to insects due to UV reflection and sugars. This attraction aids in the transmission of fungal spores, leading to mummy-berry disease formation.
Area of Science:
- Plant Pathology
- Entomology
- Mycology
Background:
- Blueberries (Vaccinium spp.) and huckleberries (Gaylussacia sp.) are susceptible to Monilinia spp. infection.
- Infection by Monilinia spp. alters host plant appearance and chemistry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms by which Monilinia spp. manipulates insect pollinators for disease transmission.
Main Methods:
- Observation of infected blueberry and huckleberry leaves and shoots.
- Analysis of visual and olfactory cues emitted by infected plant tissues.
- Assessment of insect attraction and feeding behavior on infected tissues.
Main Results:
- Infected leaves and shoots exhibit ultraviolet (UV) reflectivity and emit fragrances.
- Lesions on infected tissues secrete sugars, attracting insects.
- Insects ingest sugars and inadvertently transmit Monilinia conidia to flowers, initiating mummy-berry formation.
Conclusions:
- Monilinia spp. employs a strategy of visual and olfactory mimicry, coupled with sugar secretion, to exploit insect pollinators.
- This manipulation facilitates the effective dispersal of fungal pathogens and the development of mummy-berry disease in Vaccinium and Gaylussacia species.
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