Phytophthora

Phytophthora is a group of water-mold-like organisms known as oomycetes that act as plant pathogens. They thrive in moist environments and infect a wide range of plants, causing serious diseases like root rot, stem blights, and leaf spots. These pathogens can devastate crops, forests, and ornamental plants by blocking water and nutrient flow, leading to plant decline or death. Although they resemble fungi, they are biologically distinct. Managing Phytophthora involves good sanitation, developing resistant plant varieties, and controlling moisture levels to prevent their spread.