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First record of Meliola rhamnicola Stev. & Tehon (Meliolaceae) in India: A species originally described from British Guiana

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.11676
Submitted
8 September 2025
Published
01-03-2026

Abstract

During a survey of foliar mycobionts in the Little Andaman Islands, the authors observed Colubrina asiatica (L.) Brongn. (Rhamnaceae) infected with black mildew. Detailed microscopic examination of the fungal specimen revealed it to be a notable species of Meliola, identified as Meliola rhamnicola F. Stevens & Tehon. This species was originally described 99 years ago from British Guiana (present-day Guyana) and, until now, was known only from its type locality. This finding represents the first record of M. rhamnicola from India with a new host association with C. asiatica. Comprehensive taxonomic observations, along with illustrations and microphotographs, are provided to facilitate accurate identification of the species.

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