Fusarium

Fusarium is a group of filamentous fungi, most of them being plant-pathogenic, causing damage in more than 100 crop species. While some species are plant pathogens, others are beneficial, being used in fermentation processes. Fusarium fungi can produce mycotoxins and other secondary metabolites, which can be harmful to human, animals and plants. They are also known to cause crop diseases, such as wilt and root rot, which can have a severe economic impact. As such, the development of strategies for their control is of utmost importance. In addition, Fusarium species have been used in bioremediation of soil polluted with petroleum derivatives, demonstrating the potential of these organisms for environmental monitoring and protection.