Jarrod R. Jones1, K. S. Lawrence1, G. W. Lawrence2, and K. M. Glass1. (1) Auburn University, 8300 State Hwy 104, Gulf Coast Substation, Fairhope, AL 36532, (2) Mississippi State University, 301 Clay Lyle, Dept. Ent. and Plant Pathology, Mississippi State, MS 39762
Boll rots of cotton cause economic losses wherever cotton is grown. Economic losses vary widely and are dependent upon the local climate of the specific geographic area. The greatest losses from boll rots generally occur in areas with high rainfall and humidity or under conditions favorable for dense vegetative growth. Dense canopies provide an ideal environment for the proliferation of fungi and bacteria that affects bolls. Over 170 different species of microorganisms, mostly fungi, have been reported as causal agents of boll rots. Many of the microorganisms are opportunistic pathogens that cause boll rots after insects have damaged bolls. Others are secondary pathogens that invade the bolls through damaged plant tissues. Therefore, both chemical and cultural studies are needed to further understand these pathogens
