Ceratostomataceae

/ˌsɛrətɑstəməˈteɪsi/ noun

Definition

A family of parasitic fungi that attack bark and wood of trees, causing diseases in various plant species.

Etymology

From Greek 'keras' (horn) + 'stoma' (mouth) + Latin '-aceae' (family suffix). Named for the horn-like fruiting structures (perithecia) with mouth-like openings where spores are released.

Kelly Says

Ceratostomataceae fungi include some of the most destructive tree pathogens in the world—they partner with bark beetles to kill trees, and the beetles actually farm these fungi in their tunnels like tiny fungal gardens.

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