Late leaf spot (LLS) of peanut, caused by the fungus Nothopassalora personata, causes leaf defoliation, and even death in peanut plants, reducing crop yields and costing an average of $44 million losses per year. The fungus can be chemically controlled by fungicides; however, it is likely that the fungal pathogen has evolved the ability to avoid negative effects of these chemicals. Evolution of fungi occurs through reproduction. Fungi reproduction include asexual, where fungi produce genetically-identical spores, and sexual, where opposite mating types contribute DNA and produce genetically-unique spores which lead to genetic diversity in fungal populations. Our research question is: Is Nothopassalora personata reproducing sexually in GA peanut fields? We collected LLS samples, extracted DNA, and tested that DNA for the presence of two mating genes: MAT-1 or MAT-2. Results indicate that both mating types are present in the same peanut field in south GA; therefore, sexual reproduction is possible.
