New Records and Host Plant Associations of Erysiphe Species in Pakistan Based on Morpho-Anatomical and Molecular Characterization

Background and Objective: Powdery mildew caused by Erysiphe species is widely distributed and affects a broad range of host plants, yet comprehensive records from Pakistan remain limited. The objective of this study was to investigate powdery mildew-infected plants collected from different Regions of Pakistan and to identify the associated Erysiphe species using an integrated morpho-anatomical and molecular approach, to document new host records and distribution reports within the country. Materials and Methods: Mycological field surveys were conducted across various regions of Pakistan from 2020 to 2024. Plant specimens exhibiting powdery mildew symptoms were collected and examined through detailed morpho-anatomical characterization. Molecular phylogenetic analyses were performed to confirm species identity using an integrated taxonomic approach. Results: The infected plants showed typical powdery mildew symptoms, including white powdery growth on foliage and small black to brownish rounded ascomata. Aquilegia fragrans, Lantana indica and Ranunculus repens were confirmed as new host records for Erysiphe aquilegiae. Furthermore, Erysiphe lespedezae is reported for the first time on Lespedeza tomentosa in Pakistan. Conclusion: The study expands the known host range and distribution of Erysiphe species in Pakistan and highlights the importance of combining morpho-anatomical and molecular approaches for accurate fungal identification.