Powdery mildew disease in plants is caused by which of the following? A. Erysiphe B. Sclerospora C. Podosphaera D. Sphaerotheca E. Plasmopara

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (B) A, C & D

Explanation:
• Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects a wide range of plants and is easily identified by white to gray powdery spots on leaves and stems.
• It is caused by different species of fungi in the order Erysiphales.
• Erysiphe (A) is a major genus causing powdery mildew in various crops like legumes and vegetables.
• Podosphaera (C) is commonly associated with powdery mildew on apples and roses.
• Sphaerotheca (D) (now often reclassified under Podosphaera) is the causal agent for powdery mildew in crops like cucumbers and strawberries.
• Sclerospora (B) and Plasmopara (E) cause 'Downy Mildew', which is biologically distinct from powdery mildew.

Information Booster:
• Powdery mildew fungi are 'obligate parasites', meaning they require living host tissue to grow.
• Sulphur fungicides are the traditional and very effective control method for powdery mildew.
• Unlike many other fungi, powdery mildew can thrive in warm, dry climates, though high humidity at night favors spore formation.

Additional Knowledge:
• Plasmopara viticola (Option E) is the specific pathogen responsible for downy mildew of grapes.
• Sclerospora graminicola (Option B) causes green ear disease (downy mildew) in bajra.