Project name: Plasmopara viticola

Description: Plasmopara viticola.This pathogen is the causal agent of grapevine downy mildew. It is a heterothallic oomycete that overwinters as oospores in soil. The resulting macrosporangia release zoospores, which enter the leaves through the stomata. The infection will result in yellow lesions on the foliage after 7-10 days. This disease causes substantial damage to grape crops, resulting in deformed shoots, tendrils, and clusters. The disease also causes premature defoliation which increases susceptibillity to winter damage. A major outbreak of the disease can cause severe losses in yield and quality.

Last updated: 2008-01-07