Paramyrothecium Strychni

Paramyrothecium Strychni Latest News

Recently, scientists have discovered a new species of phytopathogenic fungus, Paramyrothecium strychni in Kerala.

About Paramyrothecium Strychni

• It is a fungus species associated with emerging leaf spots and blight disease of Strychnos dalzellii (Family-Loganiaceae) from Kerala. 
• This new species has been discovered and established on the basis of morpho-cultural and multigene molecular phylogenetic evidence.
• According to Index Fungorum, a total of 25 species of Paramyrothecium are recognied worldwide, and most of them are reported as plant pathogens.
• Species of Paramyrothecium mostly cause leaf spots and blights in all kinds of plants.

What is Strychnos Dalzellii?

• It is an endemic medicinal plant of the Western Ghats.
• It is valued for its alkaloids with analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Traditionally, it is used in treating fever, digestive disorders, rheumatism, and nervous ailments.
• Strychnos dalzellii is locally known as Kanjiram or Modirakanjiram.
• Conservation Status: It is categorised as Vulnerable (VU) under the IUCN Red List.
• Threats: Habitat degradation, and overexploitation

Source: TH

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