Pathogenicity Of Cochliobolus Species In Post Genomic Era

first and foremost this book was conceived as a blueprint document towards uncovering conceptual challenges associated with Cochliobolus species that could allow for designing and redefining an effective strategy for Cochliobolus disease management. Cochliobolus alone incarnates a global challenge be it in understanding their complex taxonomic placement and virulence differentiation since the 18th century till date. Preceding the publication of "temperature-dependent secretome weaponries of C. lunatus" and "the paradigm-shift in host-range dynamics of C. lunatus" (Louis B et al., BMC Genomics 15:213; Louis et al., Biomed Research International, Vol 2014, Article ID 378372:9), it became evident that Cochliobolus species have varied inherent survival traits. The most persuasive goal of this book is to provide insights into the adaptative traits, pathogenicity and clues that may lead to the effective management of Cochliobolus diseases in economic important crops such as sorghum (Sorghum bicolor), wheat (Triticum aestivum), rice (Oryza sativa L.), and maize (Zea mays) and also humans. New information in the literature was deligently digested and pertinently incorporated in this book. Because of the devastating environmental effects of Cochliobolus species, current themes suitable for undergraduate and researchers are assembled in this book. High quality color graphics and plant diseases all come alive in this first edition. The authors are indebted to many colleagues who provided permission for high definition images for pathogens and disease symptoms or current plant pathology concepts. Their names are provided at the legend(s) of the figures they provided. The authors are grateful to Dr. L. Bengyella for the tremendous work done in assembly and editing the book. It is hoped by the editors that this book in its colorful form would inspire students to venture into mycological-related science and embark in Cochliobolus biology which is still an enigma and understudied. In this first edition focusing only on Cochliobolus species, healthy criticism and suggestions for further improvement are welcome.