EDAX - SEM studies for the characterization of Ampelomyces quisqualis in Black gram against Erysiphe polygoni

Isolates (10) of Ampelomyces spp. from the surveyed areas were isolated using water agar medium. All the isolates were identified by their morphological characters and microscopic studies. Initially, the mycelia were hyaline and septate in nature over a period of time the color of the matured colonies in various medium turned greyish white to brownish black. Most of the isolates showed radial, flat to the submerged growth pattern. The pycnidia of different isolates of Ampelomyces varied in their shape and were mostly ovoid, pyriform to globose in shape. The size of pycnidia varied from 9.22 × 3.43 μm to 14.22 × 3.66 μm. Pycnidiospores were unicellular and guttulate in shape. The antagonist, Ampelomyces spp. was found to possess both protective and curative activities against Eryisphe polygoni in plants. The antagonist was found to increase the pycnidia and pycnidiospores. The microtomy sections of plant samples infected with Eryisphe polygoni showed collapse of epidermal cells, disruption of mesophyll and guard cells. The infected section of the plant showed more fungal invasion which was absent in the healthy plants.