Abstract

A NOVEL SPECIES OF STAPHYLOTRICHUM CURCUMAE CAUSING RHIZOME ROT OF TURMERIC

C.Ruth*, K.Gopal, B.Srinivasulu, M.Ramakrishna

ABSTRACT

Turmeric, (Curcuma longa L.) is medically very important herb known for antioxidant, anti inflammation, arthritis, injuries, tendinitis, prevent blood clotting, certain type of cancer, depression and obesity etc. It is an ancient spices being used in our country since 2000 BC; earlier as dye later gained its medical importance. The rhizome of this important herb while rotting were recorded with a new fungi of genus Staphylotrichum and species named Staphalotrichum curcumae after the host name.

Keywords: Staphylotrichum curcumae, Rhizome rot, Turmeric.