Occurrence of Erysiphe on Host Plants in the Central, Western, and Eastern Regions of Jalgaon District, Maharashtra

Abstract A systematic field survey was conducted during 2022–2023 across the central, western, and eastern regions of Jalgaon District, Maharashtra, to investigate the diversity and distribution of powdery mildew fungi. This study identified 27 fungal species belonging to the genus Erysiphe, all associated with powdery mildew infections on a wide variety of host plants. A total of 123 plant species were found to be affected by these fungi, with 83 host species being documented for the first time as susceptible to Erysiphe infections in this region. Notably, 20 of the 27 identified fungal species are newly recorded for Jalgaon District, contributing significantly to the local mycological records and plant pathology knowledge. Detailed morphological observations were used for identification, including characteristics of conidia, cleistothecia, asci, and ascospores. This research highlights the need for continued fungal biodiversity assessments and provides a foundation for future studies on plant-pathogen interactions, disease management, and conservation strategies in the region.