Plant Pathology
Mycology in the Age of the Internet
Since the early 20th century, Washington State University has been a leader in the sciences of mycology (the study of fungi) and plant pathology. Research by the University’s scientists has been essential to the outstanding successes of Washington’s agricultural businesses, ranging from growing and processing staple food crops such as wheat and potatoes to specialty crops such as wine grapes and hops. With changes posed by globalization, the advent of new crops (such as super-premium fruit varieties), and restrictions on the use of fungicides because of environmental concerns, the plant-based industries of the region continually need new information about the diagnosis and control of plant pathogenic fungi.
Dr. Glawe’s program focuses on developing and disseminating information on the fungi of the Pacific Northwest. As co-founder of the Pacific Northwest Fungi Project, he has led the effort to develop collaborations among the fungal biologists working to catalog the fungi of the region. As part of this effort he manages the Pacific Northwest Fungi Database www.pnwfungi.wsu.edu. Based in large part on research of past mycologists and plant pathologists at Washington State University, the database is the leading source of information on the region’s fungi. His research focuses on the systematics (classification and biology) of the powdery mildew fungi (Ascomycetes in the order Erysiphales). Powdery mildews are some of the most common and destructive plant pathogens but they have been little studied in North America. Dr. Glawe’s research has shown that the Pacific Northwest is home to about 200 species of powdery mildews rather than the 21 previously known species. These results have important implications for the diagnosis and control of these fungi. In addition, by clarifying the life cycles of powdery mildew fungi in the region, a foundation is being developed for new control strategies that can rely less heavily on intensive fungicide applications.
Contact Information
Dean Glawe, Ph.D.
Plant Pathologist
Puyallup Research and Extension Center
7612 Pioneer Way East
Puyallup, WA 98371-4998
Telephone: 253-445-4650
E-mail: glawe@wsu.edu
Health and Life Sciences
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