Calamithe

Calamithe is a genus of fungi in the family Erysiphaceae. The genus was introduced by Hungarian scientist Hans Hyder, and it was first described in 1898. Calamithe species are bitunicate asci-bearing fungi that primarily infect plants, typically in the family Compositae.

The genus Calamithe includes several species that are found in various parts of the world, including Europe, North America, and Asia. Some species exhibit a wide distribution, while others are confined to specific geographic regions. Calamithe species often inhabit a variety of hosts, including plants that have economic importance, such as crops and ornamentals.

Calamithe species are characterized by their conidial morphology, with the conidia typically being one-celled and with a polar Tube. In some species, the conidia are borne on stalks, which are termed pedicels. The asci of Calamithe species are also bitunicate, with the two types of asci walls being present.

Calamithe species are significant in the field of mycology, particularly in the study of host-pathogen interactions. The growth of Calamithe species on their hosts can lead to a range of symptoms, including curling and distorting of the host tissue. In some cases, the infections can result in a reduction in the host plant's yield or quality. Calamithe species can also be used as biological control agents in agriculture. Research into the genus has also led to a better understanding of the evolutionary relationships between Calamithe and other fungi in the family Erysiphaceae.