What is a 'mummy' in the context of plant pathogens?

In the context of plant pathogens, a 'mummy' refers to a dead, shriveled fruit that a pathogen may overwinter in. This term is commonly associated with certain fungal diseases, such as those caused by the genus Monilinia, which infects stone fruits like peaches, cherries, and plums. After the fruit has been infected and dies, it dries out and shrivels, forming a mummy. During the winter months, these mummies can serve as a source of inoculum for the pathogen, allowing it to survive adverse conditions and infect new plant material in the following growing season. This overwintering strategy is a key aspect of disease management, as recognizing and removing these mummies can significantly reduce the spread of the pathogen in the crop. Understanding the role of mummies in the life cycle of plant pathogens is essential for effective disease control strategies.