Myrothecium

Myrothecium is a genus of hyphomycetous fungi in the family Nectriaceae, order Hypocreales. The genus contains numerous species, most of which are saprotrophic on decaying plant material, but some are plant pathogens affecting a broad range of hosts. Members reproduce asexually by conidia produced in slimy heads on conidiophores; the sexual stage is poorly described for many species and may be rare in nature.

Distribution and ecology: They are widely distributed in temperate and tropical regions, found on leaves, stems, fruits, wood, and soil. Pathogenic species cause leaf spots, blights, cankers, or fruit rot, contributing to crop losses in various agricultural systems and to disease on ornamentals and greenhouse plants.

Toxins and safety: Certain species produce macrocyclic trichothecene mycotoxins, such as roridins and verrucarins, which are highly toxic to animals and can contaminate plant material. Handling infected material or using contaminated seed or mulch requires caution, and toxin risk is a consideration in agricultural management and regulatory assessments.

Taxonomy and research: Molecular phylogenetics have clarified relationships within Nectriaceae, but species limits in Myrothecium remain under study with ongoing revisions. Research interest includes pathogenicity, host range, and the potential of certain strains in biocontrol contexts, balanced by toxin-related safety considerations.

Notable species: Myrothecium roridum and Myrothecium verrucaria are commonly cited in literature as representative members.