Diagnosis and Detection of Major Airborne Fungal Phytopathogens

Abstract

Food safety and security are at risk because agricultural crops are infected by a number of pathogens, including bacteria, fungus, viruses, viroids, and plant viruses. The diminutions in foods caused by these phytopathogenic agents have been persistent concerns related to agriculture for generations all throughout the world. Airborne fungal phytopathogens create significant threats to agricultural ecosystems, causing sizeable economic losses and jeopardizing food security worldwide. When developing management methods, the most crucial factors are thought to be the prompt detection and precise identification of the causative agents linked to crop diseases. The methods and technologies now used in the identification and detection of the main airborne fungal phytopathogens are thoroughly reviewed in this chapter. Firstly, traditional diagnostic techniques such as microscopy, culture-based methods, and air samplers are discussed, highlighting their advantages and limitations. Additionally, molecular techniques, including polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based assays, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), etc., are examined for their sensitivity, specificity, and applicability in detecting airborne fungal pathogens. Overall, this chapter aims to provide valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers involved in the management and surveillance of airborne fungal phytopathogens, fostering advancements in disease control strategies and safeguarding global crop production. © 2025 The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd.