Alternaria brassicae causes leaf spots on Eruca sativa in Brazil

Abstract

Leaf spots on Eruca sativa (arugula) were observed in Brazil and shown to be caused by a fungus belonging in the genus Alternaria. Morphological and molecular features were analysed and identity of the fungus was confirmed as Alternaria brassicae. A pure culture was established, and Koch’s postulates were fulfilled. Inoculation studies have confirmed that the isolate from arugula attacks other crops in the Brassicaceae.