Mouldy grapes on the vine
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Mouldy grapes on the vine
Mouldy grapes on the vine. Ripening bunch of grapes (Vitis vinifera) showing infection by grey mould (Botrytis cinerea). This fungus is pathogenic and widespread and causes a variety of rots, including stem and leaf rots. Here, it is affecting the fruit. Sometimes (as here, in a greenhouse) the effect on grapes leads to eventual destruction of the crop, but in certain sets of conditions the fungus causes the grapes to shrivel, reducing their water content and increasing their sugar content. This allows the production of especially prized sweet wines, when the mould is known as The Noble Rot
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6337034
© DR JEREMY BURGESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Agriculture Crop Decaying Destroyed Farming Fruit Fungal Fungus Grape Green House Inedible Infected Infection Micro Organism Micro Organisms Microbe Microbial Mold Mould Mouldy Pathogenic Plant Pathology Rotting Ruined Vitis Vinifera Common Grape Vine Pathogen
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the intriguing beauty of mouldy grapes on the vine. The ripening bunch of grapes, belonging to the Vitis vinifera species, showcases a fascinating infection by grey mould known as Botrytis cinerea. This pathogenic and widespread fungus is notorious for causing various rots in plants, including stem and leaf rots. In this particular case, it has affected the fruit itself. In certain conditions, such as those found in greenhouses like this one, the effect of grey mould can lead to the destruction of an entire grape crop. However, under specific circumstances, something remarkable happens - instead of destroying them completely, the fungus causes these grapes to shrivel up. As a result, their water content decreases while their sugar content increases significantly. This unique transformation allows for the production of highly sought-after sweet wines that are prized by connoisseurs worldwide. When referring to this phenomenon in winemaking circles, it is often referred to as "The Noble Rot". While visually unappealing due to its decaying appearance and moldy texture, these infected grapes hold immense value within the realm of viticulture. Through this stunning image captured by Science Photo Library's lens, we gain insight into both nature's destructive power and its ability to create something extraordinary out of decay. It serves as a reminder that even in ruinous moments like crop destruction caused by pathogens like Botrytis cinerea; there may still be hidden treasures waiting to be discovered within nature's intricate web.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.