Brigantiaeaceae

The Brigantiaeaceae family consists of fungi that primarily manifest as lichenized or lichenicolous organisms. In an agronomic context, they are monitored as indicators of tree bark health, as their overgrowth can signify physiological stress and provide a niche for other harmful microorganisms to invade the host plant.

The causative agents belong to the Ascomycota division. The infection type is superficial yet damaging, characterized by the mycelium colonization of the bark's surface. This presence interferes with the natural physiological processes of the tree's outer layer, leading to potential weakening of the branch structure over long periods of time.

The primary hosts for these fungi are long-lived perennial trees, particularly in traditional orchards where humidity levels remain consistently high. Symptoms include the formation of distinct, crust-like or granular lesions on the bark, which can often merge, covering large sections of the trunk or main branches with a visible fungal layer.

Environmental conditions that foster the development of Brigantiaeaceae include prolonged periods of moisture, poor air circulation within the tree canopy, and low light exposure. These conditions allow spores to germinate easily and establish stable colonies on the bark surface, effectively exploiting the microclimate of dense, unpruned orchards.

Management and prevention focus on maintaining proper tree hygiene. Key strategies include:

• Periodic mechanical cleaning of loose, dead bark from trunks.
• Application of specialized lime washes to inhibit fungal growth.
• Systematic pruning to improve sunlight penetration and air circulation.
• Removing severely affected branches to reduce inoculum load in the orchard.