What disease is characterized by rapid damage to bent grass putting greens?

Pythium blight is a disease known for causing rapid and severe damage to bent grass putting greens, which can often result in large areas of the turf turning brown and dying overnight. This disease thrives in warm, moist conditions, typically during periods of high humidity and temperatures. The rapid onset of symptoms, including the appearance of dark, greasy patches, makes Pythium blight particularly notorious among turf managers.

Its ability to quickly destroy turf can lead to substantial aesthetic and functional issues on golf courses, especially if left untreated. The rapid spread and damage are largely due to the aggressive nature of the Pythium pathogens, making it crucial for turf managers to implement preventive measures, such as proper irrigation practices, adequate drainage, and fungicide applications, to mitigate the risk of outbreaks.

While other diseases like gray leaf spot, spring dead spot, and fusarium patch can also affect turf, they typically have different characteristics and symptoms, and they may not cause rapid damage to the same extent as Pythium blight does.