Fungus-like pathogen

Fungus-like pathogen

Phytophthora pinifolia

Common name:

Fungus-like pathogen

Scientific name:

Phytophthora pinifolia

Alternative common names:


Description:

Fungus-like pathogen is a water mould that has been identified as the likely causal agent of a relatively new disease of Monterey pine (Pinus radiata) found in plantations. Characterized by a relatively rapid death of needles and subsequent defoliation of trees, infections typically appear in the late autumn, coinciding with the onset of rain.

Additional Information


Where does this species come from?

Chile

What is its invasive status in South Africa?

NEMBA Category 1b

Where in South Africa is it a problem?

Unknown.

How does it spread?

Spread via sawn green lumber.

Why is it a problem?

Fungus-like pathogen causes devastating needle blight disease on Monterey pine (Pinus radiata). Infections usually begin to appear in late autumn and co-incident with the onset of rain. Infected needles typically display distinct resinous bands on their laminas. Where infections reach the needle bases, copious amounts of resin exude from the points of attachment with the stems and dead needles fall from the trees. New needle growth in the following season is typically not affected and trees appear to recover unless a new season of infection occurs the following year.

What does it look like?

Leaves: None
Flowers: None
Fruit/seeds: None

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