MAJOR FUNGAL PATHOGENS AFFECTING APPLE ORCHARDS IN THE ALMATY REGION

Fungal pathogens, particularly representatives of the genera Moniliniaand Venturia, pose a serious threat to apple (Malus domestica) production in temperate climate regions. Among them, Moniliniaspecies cause moniliosis (brown rot), while Venturia inaequalisis the causal agent of apple scab—both diseases result in significant economic losses and reduce fruit quality in orchards.Moniliniaspecies are known as pathogens responsible for fruit rot, blossom blight, and shoot dieback. In recent years, the invasive species M. polystromahas attracted researchers' attention due to its high aggressiveness and expanding range in European apple orchards. These pathogens cause round, sunken necrotic lesions on fruits with active sporulation, leading to fruit mummification and the persistence of infection within the orchard.In turn, Venturia inaequalisremains one of the most widespread and damaging pathogens of apple, particularly in cool and humid climates. It primarily affects leaves and young fruits, causing characteristic olive-brown to black spots thatcan lead to premature leaf fall, fruit deformation, and a reduction in commercial value.The present s