Powdery mildew is caused by which fungal species?

Powdery mildew is caused by which fungal species?

• A. Blumeria graminis
• B. Phytophthora infestans
• C. Puccinia graminis
• D. Botrytis cinerea

Answer: (A)

Powdery mildew on plants is caused by Blumeria graminis, a fungus that forms the characteristic white, powdery colonies on leaf surfaces. This group of fungi, belonging to the powdery mildew lineage, is known for infecting living tissue and producing conidia that give that powdery appearance. The other fungi listed cause different diseases: Phytophthora infestans leads to late blight, Puccinia graminis causes stem rust, and Botrytis cinerea causes gray mold. The distinct powdery coating on leaves is the giveaway that points to Blumeria graminis as the cause.

Powdery mildew on plants is caused by Blumeria graminis, a fungus that forms the characteristic white, powdery colonies on leaf surfaces. This group of fungi, belonging to the powdery mildew lineage, is known for infecting living tissue and producing conidia that give that powdery appearance. The other fungi listed cause different diseases: Phytophthora infestans leads to late blight, Puccinia graminis causes stem rust, and Botrytis cinerea causes gray mold. The distinct powdery coating on leaves is the giveaway that points to Blumeria graminis as the cause.