Abstract
The study investigates the morphological and phylogenetic characteristics of Colletotrichum species linked to anthracnose on Yunnanopilia longistaminea (Opiliaceae) in Yunnan, China. From July 2023 to July 2024, foliar anthracnose on Y. longistaminea 20-year-old plants with an incidence rate of 16% and two-year-old seedlings with an incidence rate of >90% were investigated in Yunnan, China. Based on morphological features and molecular approaches, four isolates of Colletotrichum were identified as C. karstii and C. fructicola. Two species were verified to induce foliar anthracnose by validating Koch's postulates. This is the first report of C. karstii and C. fructicola inducing foliar anthracnose on Y. longistaminea in Yunnan, China, and globally. These findings enhance our understanding of the fungal pathogens affecting Y. longistaminea leaves and provides a theoretical basis of conservation and disease management in the study area. Further research is needed to explore these species' ecological impacts and potential control measures in agricultural practices and wild resources protection.