Binucleate Rhizoctonia on potato: Geographic distribution, identification, taxonomy, genomics, host range and disease management

Abstract

Anastomosis groups belonging to the genus Rhizoctonia are phytopathogenic fungi that affect many agricultural crops and are well distributed globally. Among these, Rhizoctonia solani is the dominant, aggressive, widely distributed and the most extensively studied species within the Rhizoctonia genus because of its dominance as a plant pathogen. However, limited attention has been given to other Rhizoctonia species as they were believed to have little or no role in causing diseases on potatoes. Recently, accumulating information indicated that binucleate Rhizoctonia (BNR), previously considered to be saprophytic, mycorrhizal and even biocontrol agent, is phytopathogenic on many agricultural crops including potato. Up until now, there has been no comprehensive review on BNR. However, there is an intense need to understand its taxonomy, biology, detection, genomics and management, not only due to the growing increased survival and occurrence in various climatic conditions. The limited diagnostic methods, and genomic knowledge make understanding and managing of BNR species difficult. This review outlines the information available in peer-reviewed literature regarding the BNR anastomosis groups associated with potato diseases, geographical distribution, detection methods, genomics, nomenclature and taxonomical evolution along with some possible management and control strategies.