what is phytophthora
(Photo: Wiki Commons /Flickr). Phytophthora is a type of water mold, also known as an oomycete. Just like pythium, phytophthora is an exceptionally aggressive fungus that causes both economic and environmental damage. When a plant is infected, it is unable to absorb nutrients or water because of dead root tissue.Photo: Wiki Commons /Flickr). Phytophthora is a type of water mold, also known as an oomycete. Just like pythium, phytophthora is an exceptionally aggressive fungus that causes both economic and environmental damage. When a plant is infected, it is unable to absorb nutrients or water because of dead root tissue.