Managing Colletotrichum on Fruit Crops: A "Complex" Challenge.

Area of Science:

• Plant Pathology
• Mycology
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• The fungal genus *Colletotrichum* comprises many plant pathogens with complex taxonomy, making species differentiation challenging.
• Key species complexes, *C. acutatum* and *C. gloeosporioides*, are significant threats to temperate fruit crops globally.
• Variations in pathogenicity, host range, and fungicide sensitivity exist even within these complexes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current research on *Colletotrichum*-caused diseases in major U.S. fruit crops.
• To focus on the taxonomy of involved *Colletotrichum* species and their impact.
• To summarize disease management strategies and future outlooks for these pathogens.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific publications on *Colletotrichum* in U.S. fruit crops.
• Analysis of taxonomic classifications and genetic data for species identification.
• Synthesis of information on disease symptoms, epidemiology, and control measures.

Main Results:

• Identified key *Colletotrichum* species and complexes affecting U.S. fruit production.
• Highlighted the challenges in differentiating species due to phenotypic and genotypic similarities.
• Documented variations in disease impact and fungicide sensitivity across different species and regions.

Conclusions:

• A deeper understanding of *Colletotrichum* taxonomy is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective disease management.
• Integrated disease management strategies are needed to combat fungicide resistance and pathogen evolution.
• Continued research is vital for developing sustainable control methods for *Colletotrichum* diseases in fruit crops.