Byssocorticiaceae

The Byssocorticiaceae family comprises a group of basidiomycetous fungi known for their presence in forest ecosystems and agricultural landscapes. These fungi act as decomposers, but under favorable conditions, they can behave as opportunistic pathogens that compromise the health of woody plants, causing significant tissue decay.

The disease is caused by the fungal mycelium colonizing the host's woody tissue. This pathogen type primarily leads to wood decay, effectively degrading the lignin and cellulose matrix. The fungal hyphae penetrate the xylem and cambium, disrupting the tree's internal nutrient and water transport mechanisms.

A wide range of woody species, including conifers and broad-leaved trees, are susceptible to Byssocorticiaceae. While they often colonize deadwood or stumps, they pose a serious threat to living plants that have been weakened by drought, frost, or physical damage, which creates open entry points for the infection.

Symptoms of infestation often manifest as a fine, web-like mycelial mat on the bark or wood surface. Internally, the wood may exhibit signs of bleaching or darkening, accompanied by brittleness. As the infection progresses, affected branches show reduced foliage density, dieback, and eventually, structural failure of the plant.

Development and spread are facilitated by high humidity, poor air circulation, and stable, moderate temperatures. The fungi propagate through spores released during wet weather, which are dispersed by wind or rain splash. Controlling the disease relies heavily on proactive environmental management and the maintenance of tree vigor to prevent initial colonization.

• Removing infected branches and decaying wood debris.
• Applying fungicides to wounds to prevent spore colonization.
• Improving site drainage to reduce local humidity.
• Ensuring proper spacing between trees for adequate aeration.