Introduction

Abstract

Among the microbial plant pathogens, the fungal pathogens have more elaborate structural features and they were the first to be demonstrated to be the causative agents of plant diseases. This volume aims to provide required information on various techniques for the detection, differentiation and quantification of fungal plant pathogens in infected plants, planting materials, environment, as well as accurate diagnosis of the diseases even in plants and plant materials that may not exhibit any recognizable symptoms of infection. The efficacies of different techniques are compared; their limitations are indicated and the suitability of the techniques for large scale application is highlighted. The important role played by the disease diagnostic centers, plant quarantine and certification programs in providing advice to the growers, prevention of introduction of new diseases and establishment of disease-free nuclear stocks has to be realized and necessary facilities should be provided for their efficient functioning.