Root rot of Ginseng

Cylindrocarpon destructans

Previous research has shown that the fungus Cylindrocarpon destructans (teleomorph Nectria radicicola) is a major root rot pathogen of ginseng. The fungus has also been reported to cause decay of woody seedlings, especially conifers, and can infect a range of other hosts. Isolates of C. destrucatans may cause symptoms of root rot, rusty root, or both on ginseng.
Root rot and rusty root symptoms are quite distinct. Root rot typically appears first at the tip of the taproot destroying the fibrous roots and progressing toward the crown. It usually affects the outer root layers first, but the core of the root eventually disintegrates, often leaving the hollow remains of the root in the soil, and as such is known as disappearing root rot. In contrast, rusty root symptoms usually appear first near the crown of the taproot as small, raised, reddish-brown discolored areas. The affected areas are only on the root surface and never penetrate deep and eventually slough off. It is not clear whether weakly virulent C. destructans isolates are involved in these symptoms and there is emerging evidence that Fusarium spp. can be involved in rusty root development.

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