Title: Characterization of Pyrenophora species causing brown leaf spot on Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) in southwestern China

Authors: Xue Longhai, Liu Yong*, Zhou Su, White James, Li Chunjie*

Journal: Plant Disease

Impact Factor: IF₂₀₁₈= 3.583(农林1区) 

Abstract:Leaf spots were observed in several Italian ryegrass fields in southwestern China. A total of 112 strains were isolated from symptomatic leaves. Morphological characterization and phylogeny revealed four fungal species including Alternaria alternata, Pyrenophora dictyoides, P. nobleae, and a yet new species, Epicoccum lolii. Pathogenicity tests showed that the most common causal agent of Drechslera leaf spot was P. dictyoides, followed by P. nobleae; A. alternata and E. lolii can also infect Italian ryegrass, causing leaf spot. This work reports for the first time on the association of these four fungal species with Italian ryegrass in China. Accurately identifying these pathogens will be very useful for preventing and controlling Italian ryegrass leaf spots in the future.