Glimpse into phytopathogenic fungal species in Al Baha Province, Saudi Arabia; identification from molecular and morphological characteristics

Fungal agents form the principal disease-inducing pathogens affecting plants, being accountable for the majority of damage to crops occurring either in fields or in storage. Five genera and 8 species were recognized amongst 20 fungal isolates collected during this study. These were identified through molecular markers; 80% of the recognized species were Aspergillus; the remainder included B. prieskaensis, F. oxysporum, G. candidum and Actinomucor elegans. The majority of these genera are well-recognized for their ability to produce mycotoxins. The biological activity and virulence of fungi is notably impacted by environmental conditions, especially temperature and water. For the isolates investigated in the current research, 75% showed a growth preference for a temperature of 30 degrees C; the remainder favoured 25 degrees C. These data not only facilitate the recognition of species with phytopathogenic and mycotoxigenic properties, but also contribute to the design of regulatory strategies that will mitigate against the adverse effects of fungal infection.