The effect of disease induced by Albugo candida (white rust) and Peronospora parasitica (downy mildew) on the survival and reproduction of Capsella burna-pastoris (shepherd's purse)

Abstract

Disese induced by Albugo candida or Peronospora parasitica was found to have significant effects on the survival and reproductive output of affected individuals of Capsella bursa-pastoris. The time of infection by either pathogen was of considerable importance in determining the ultimate effect of disease. Systemic (primary) infection of seedling plants led to a high degree of mortality (88%) prior to reproductive maturity, however, localized or systemic secondary infection did not affect survival. Fruit production of surviving infected plants was negatively correlated with disease severity.