ABSTRACT
The Oomycete, Phytophthora causes devastating diseases in almost all ecological niches. It is a hemibiotroph, and has a 'two speed genome' which underpins a rapid evolution of the vast repertoire of virulence (effector) genes present. This brings about an ability to rapidly co-evolve and thereby adapt to resistant hosts has making it one of the most devastating of phytopathogens. Added to that is its variation in host ranges from a single host to hundreds of genera for certain species. Each having different host–pathosystem interaction and dynamics making complete control apparently impossible. Yet there seems to be a method in this diversity, which can be exploited. The effectors are often the key in determining host specificity and their interaction are essential for successful infection or vice versa. More than 1000 effectors described for Phytophthora species have the potential to manipulate host metabolism.
