Effect of infection by Ustilago bullata on vegetative growth of Bromus catharticus

Abstract

Glasshouse experiments have shown that Ustilago bullata Berk. can severely reduce seedling survival, tillering, and herbage and root dry matter production of Bromus catharticus Vahl. Infected plants produced increased numbers of flowering tillers. These effects were not apparent in the field. A field experiment indicated that infection can prevent B. catharticus plants from surviving beyond flowering. An unreported leaf blade deformation symptom of infected plants is described.