In vitro evaluation of different culture media on growth and sporulation of Curvularia lunata

Abstract

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) is one of the most important fiber crops playing a key role in the economic and social scenario of the globe. India is one of the major cotton growing countries in the world. India ranks first in area and second in the total production of cotton in the world. Cotton is grown worldwide for its natural fiber and oil. Cotton is primarily a raw material for a thriving textile industry and is also one of the most ancient and essential commercial crops, second only to food grains. Among which, the Curvularia leaf spot of cotton caused by Curvularia lunata is observed in moderate form causing considerable damage in recent times but the disease has the potential to be severe and it could become significant concern for the cotton growers. Here in this experiment, seven different growth media were tested for their suitability for the mycelial growth, colony colour, cultural characteristics and sporulation of the C. lunata under in vitro test. Among the seven different growth media tested, Potato dextrose agar media proved the best growth media for the mycelial growth of the pathogen. The best sporulation of C. lunata was observed in potato dextrose agar media, while poor sporulation was observed in corn meal media.