Ascosporic Fertilization of Epichloë typhina in Dactylis glomerata Seed Production Fields in Oregon and Implications for Choke Management

Abstract

Epichloë typhina, causal agent of choke, is a fungus that systemically infects the crown and foliage of Dactylis glomerata(orchardgrass). The process of infection of orchardgrass by E. typhina has not been fully established, but ascospores are believed to be responsible for new plant infections. The objective of this study was to determine if ascospores could serve as spermatia and fertilize stromata of E. typhina. To our knowledge, this is the first report of ascosporic fertilization in the genus Epichloë. Accepted for publication 28 January 2008. Published 21 April 2008.