Gibberella Zeae

Gibberella zeae, also known as Fusarium graminearum, is a pathogenic fungus that seriously affects various crops, including corn. This fungus spreads mainly through spores that are dispersed through the air and water, contaminating healthy plants. Infection begins when spores come into contact with corn tissues, usually through wounds or natural openings in the plant. Once inside, the fungus quickly colonizes the internal tissues, producing mycelium and sporangia that allow its multiplication. During favorable conditions of high humidity and moderate temperatures, the fungus produces sexually reproducing structures called perithecia, which release ascospores capable of surviving in soil and plant debris during the winter. This ability to perennialize in plant residues and infected soils allows Gibberella zeae to initiate new infections in the following growing season, perpetuating its presence and impact on corn.