Rasvakerrostumien

Rasvakerrostumien, also known as *Sclerotinia sclerotiorum*, is a common fungal plant pathogen that affects a wide range of crops, including oilseed rape (canola), sunflowers, beans, potatoes, and various vegetables. The disease is particularly destructive in cool, wet conditions and is responsible for significant yield losses worldwide.

The fungus produces white, fluffy mycelium on infected plant tissues, which later darkens and forms hard, dark sclerotia—resting structures that allow the pathogen to survive in soil or plant debris for extended periods. These sclerotia can remain viable for years, making the disease persistent in agricultural fields. Infection typically occurs when sclerotia germinate, releasing ascospores or apothecia (cup-shaped fruiting bodies) that disperse via wind or water.

Symptoms of *Sclerotinia* infection include water-soaked lesions on stems, leaves, and pods, which eventually rot and collapse. In severe cases, entire plants may wilt and die, leading to white mold-like growth on the surface of infected tissues. The disease is favored by high humidity, prolonged dew, and dense plant canopies that trap moisture.

Management strategies focus on cultural, chemical, and biological control methods. Crop rotation with non-host plants, proper field drainage, and avoiding excessive nitrogen fertilization can reduce disease incidence. Fungicidal seed treatments and foliar sprays containing active ingredients like strobilurins or carboxamides may help prevent infection. Additionally, destroying infected plant debris and using resistant crop varieties can mitigate long-term risks.

Early detection and prompt removal of infected plants are crucial for limiting spread. Research continues to explore genetic resistance in crops and integrated pest management approaches to combat this economically significant pathogen.