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Fungal infection in eggplant and peppers #880213

Asked August 05, 2024, 9:07 AM EDT

Hi, we had what appears to be a fungus in our eggplant, with some damage to an adjacent serrano pepper plant. At the same time we had one cucumber vine dry and shrivel over night, although the symptoms were not exactly identical. Could you please identify this? Thanks! Steve in Manistee

Manistee County Michigan

Expert Response

HI Stephen, thanks for the question.

The white "fuzzies" appear to be mealy bugs or possibly woolly aphids. The first picture is somewhat challenging.  Not sure what it is that shows in the center (inside the stem).  Is it an insect?  It could be the remains of a borer. The hollowing of the stem would suggest a boring insect like the European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis) which could cause wilting and leaf yellowing. Fusarium wilt can show similar symptoms and should show vascular staining.  Check out the following links:

Mealybugs Management Guidelines--UC IPM (ucanr.edu)

Woolly aphids | Yard and Garden (iastate.edu)

European corn borer - Ostrinia nubilalis (Hubner) (ufl.edu)

I hope this is helpful.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied August 07, 2024, 8:52 AM EDT

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