MACROPHOMINA PHASEOLINA (TASSI) GOID. – CAUSATIVE AGENT OF ASH ROT OF SUNFLOWER IN THE TAMBOV REGION AND BEYOND (REVIEW)

Annotation. The article summarizes information about the phytopathogenic fungus Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid. – the causative agent of ash (coal) rot of sunflower both in the conditions of the Tambov region, based on literature data and long-term observations, and on a global scale. The taxonomic position, distribution area, development conditions, life cycle and dynamics of the disease on sunflower, symptoms and distinguishing features from similar diseases, sources of infection are considered. The high harmfulness of the pathogen is shown in the form of a decrease in qualitative and quantitative indicators of sunflower yield. The methods of pathogen diagnosis both in the field and in the laboratory using methods of classical microbiology and molecular diagnostics are indicated. Methods of combating the pathogen by traditional methods, through the use of biological and chemical agents, as well as breeding approaches aimed at creating resistant varieties are systematized. The prospects of research on the Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid fungus are discussed.