Intraspecific variability in growth and in vitro production of plant cell wall-degrading enzymes among argentinean isolates of Colletotrichum graminicola, a maize pathogen

Background and aims: Colletotrichum graminicola (Glomerellaceae, Glomerellales), the causal agent of maize (Zea mays) anthracnose, as many other fungal pathogens, relies on its battery cell wall degrading enzymes (CWDEs) to make way through walls host, thus production these is considered a virulence factor. Since this disease relatively new in Argentina, little known about capacity CWDEs native isolates. The aim work was investigate if there intraspecific variability growth vitro several extracellular among Argentinean isolates C. graminicola. M&M: Eight (obtained from symptomatic plants growing different geographical locations) were tested evaluate polygalacturonase, polymethylgalacturonase, β-glucosidase laccase production, using two liquid culture media. Results: Polygalacturonase, polymethylgalacturonase greatly varied Laccase activity detected only three Utmost enzymatic titres attained respectively 250, 280, 45 63 U/l. observed consistent with high found at genetic level when assessing ISSR markers. Conclusions: evaluated showed notable differences not associated differential growth. This indicates large variability, which might be choosing method deal pathogen.