Diversity of Diaporthe species associated with post-harvest decay on kiwifruit in China.
Eight Diaporthe species, including four new to hosts, were identified as key pathogens causing kiwifruit decay in China, with D. eres being most prevalent at 58.9%.
- Why it matters: Understanding the diversity and pathogenicity of Diaporthe species is essential for managing post-harvest decay, which threatens the Chinese kiwifruit industry’s growth and sustainability.
- What they did: Researchers analyzed 325 fungal isolates using ITS sequencing, multi-locus phylogenetics, and morphological observations, identifying eight species and assessing their pathogenicity on kiwifruit, apple, and citrus.
- The result: Findings reveal widespread infection potential and cross-infectivity among species, providing vital insights for developing targeted, integrated disease management strategies to mitigate kiwifruit decay.