Science

Even parasites have parasites: Fungus infects powdery mildew

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Briefings

A new study from North Carolina State University reveals that the intracellular fungus Ampelomyces is far more prevalent than previously thought in powdery mildew infections. Researchers screened museum samples dating back to approximately 150 years old, finding that many specimens labeled as Ampelomyces are actually misidentified species. This discovery challenges existing understanding of fungal diversity within the plant disease ecosystem.

Key points

• Ampelomyces is an intracellular fungus that infects powdery mildew, and it is far more common than previously known.
• Museum samples up to 150 years old were screened, revealing that many specimens labeled as Ampelomyces are misidentified.

Context

This finding expands knowledge of fungal parasites within the plant disease ecosystem, specifically within the powdery mildew complex. It suggests a more complex and diverse network of fungal interactions than previously understood.

Limitations

The study relied on screening museum samples up to 150 years old, limiting the temporal scope of the findings. The specific geographic distribution of these misidentified specimens across different regions remains unknown.

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