Bipolaris

Bipolaris is a genus of filamentous fungi in the family Pleosporaceae, order Pleosporales, class Dothideomycetes. Members are found worldwide in soil and on plant debris and are known for producing darkly pigmented conidia. The genus includes species with both plant pathogenic and opportunistic human and animal pathogenic capabilities. The sexual states of many Bipolaris species are classified in the associated genus Cochliobolus, while the asexual forms are placed in Bipolaris.

In agriculture, several Bipolaris species are important plant pathogens. Notable examples include Bipolaris sorokiniana, which causes leaf blotch and root diseases on cereals such as wheat and barley; Bipolaris maydis, associated with diseases of maize including southern corn leaf blight; and Bipolaris oryzae, responsible for brown spot disease of rice. These fungi typically infect leaves and stems under warm, humid conditions and can persist on crop residues, contributing to yield losses and quality reductions.

In humans and animals, Bipolaris species are infrequently encountered as opportunistic pathogens, mainly affecting immunocompromised individuals or those with ocular trauma or sinus disease. Infections can present as keratitis, sinusitis, subcutaneous phaeohyphomycosis, or allergic reactions. Diagnosis often relies on culture and molecular methods, with treatment guided by species identification and antifungal susceptibility testing.

Management and control in agriculture focus on cultural practices, crop rotation, residue management, and the use of resistant cultivars or fungicides as appropriate. In clinical cases, prompt diagnosis and appropriate antifungal therapy are essential, with management tailored to the site and severity of infection.