Rust Fungi
Rust fungi are a group of plant pathogens belonging to the order Pucciniales. They primarily infect plants, causing rust diseases characterized by reddish-brown pustules on leaves, stems, and fruits. These fungi require two different host plants to complete their life cycle, which includes multiple spore stages.
Rust fungi can significantly impact agriculture by reducing crop yields and quality. Common hosts include cereal crops like wheat and barley, as well as various ornamental plants. Effective management strategies include resistant plant varieties and fungicide applications to control their spread and minimize damage.