Plant diseases caused by Thielaviopsis and related fungi: biology, symptoms, and management strategies

Abstract Fungi of the genus Thielaviopsis and closely related genera have emerged as increasingly important plant pathogens worldwide. They infect a broad range of hosts, including forest species, major field crops, fruit trees, vegetables, and ornamental plants, causing economically significant diseases in both pre- and postharvest stages. These pathogens produce highly resistant survival structures that enable long-term persistence in soil and crop residues, favoring disease carryover and recurrent outbreaks. Disease management is particularly challenging due to their polyphagous nature, high survival capacity, and the limited availability of fungicides specifically recommended for their control. In addition, agricultural practices such as mechanical harvesting and residue retention can enhance pathogen inoculum and disease incidence. This review addresses key aspects of the biology of these pathogens, symptomatology on different hosts, host range of the principal species, epidemiology, and current management strategies. Recent advances in molecular phylogenetics have led to profound taxonomic revisions within the family Ceratocystidaceae, resulting in the recognition of distinct genera and species complexes, including Thielaviopsis and Berkeleyomyces . A comprehensive understanding of the diversity, biology, and ecological behavior of these fungi is essential for accurately diagnosing diseases and for developing more effective and sustainable disease management strategies.