Monilinia fructigena is a fungal pathogen that primarily affects fruit crops, particularly apples and pears. It is known for causing brown rot, which leads to the decay of fruit both on the tree and during storage. The fungus thrives in warm, humid conditions and can spread rapidly, making it a significant concern for fruit growers. The disease manifests as brown, soft lesions on the fruit, which can eventually lead to complete fruit rot. Effective management strategies include proper sanitation, timely harvesting, and the use of fungicides to minimize the impact of Monilinia fructigena on crops.