Which of the following best describes the life cycle of strawberry anthracnose?

The life cycle of strawberry anthracnose, caused by the pathogen Colletotrichum spp., is characterized by both sexual and asexual reproduction processes. In nature, the asexual phase predominates, allowing the fungus to rapidly spread, especially under favorable environmental conditions such as high humidity and warm temperatures. In this stage, the fungus produces conidia, which are spores that disperse through rain splash or wind, leading to new infections on nearby plants.

However, the sexual phase also plays a significant role in the life cycle, particularly in the survival of the fungus during adverse conditions. Under certain circumstances, especially when environmental stress occurs, sexual reproduction can take place, resulting in the formation of ascospores, which are sexually produced spores that can lead to genetic variation and enhance the pathogen's adaptability.

The dual nature of reproduction allows the pathogen to thrive and adapt to changing environmental conditions, making it more challenging to manage, thereby underscoring the importance of integrated pest management strategies in strawberry production. Understanding this life cycle is vital for developing effective control measures against strawberry anthracnose.