There are several host-specialized strains, some of which, such as Ceratocystis platani that attacks plane trees, are now described as distinct species.

[1] It is a large, diverse complex of species that cause wilt-type diseases of many economically important plants.

One example is the Ipomoea form of the fungus, which is specific to sweet potato (Ipomea batatas) and wild morning glory.

[6] Higher respiration rates cause dry weight loss in the tubers which poses a problem for marketability.

In other areas (such as southeastern USA) the damage is less severe due to the use of resistant varieties and sanitary measures.

[1] Ceratocystis fimbriata produces ascospores, and these spores are found at the top of fruiting bodies known as perithecia.

Then, mycelium produce long, black perithecia (fruiting structures) that have a sticky mass of ascospores at the top.

These ascospores enter and infect new plants through wounds on any part of the plant/tuber/etc and are commonly dispersed by insects, wind, and equipment.

[5] Also, pre-sprouting roots at warm temperature favors disease and should be avoided when growing sweet potatoes.

[4] Since many sweet potatoes are grown from roots or slips, any diseased tissue present can lead to more widespread infection.

In order to prevent black rot, it's absolutely essential to avoid using infected seed roots as this is a major way of disease transmission.

[5] Finally, good management practices include cleaning all equipment to prevent disease spread.

In April 2018, researchers published descriptions of two species of Ceratocystis new to science that are believed to be responsible for rapid 'ohi'a death: C. huliohia and C. lukuohia.