Dendrothele

Dendrothele is a genus of fungi belonging to the Corticiaceae family. While many species are considered saprotrophs, some may act as opportunistic pathogens, colonizing the bark of trees and causing damage that can affect the overall health and vitality of the host plant in agricultural and forestry settings.

The causal agent is a basidiomycetous fungus that spreads through airborne spores. This type of disease is characterized as a bark-inhabiting infection, where the fungus forms thin, crust-like layers that can disrupt the natural protective barriers of the tree, potentially leading to bark necrosis.

The host range for Dendrothele includes various broadleaf deciduous trees, such as oaks, maples, and several species of fruit trees. The fungus is most frequently observed on mature trees with deeply furrowed bark, which provides a stable substrate for the fungal mycelium to establish and spread during moist periods.

Key symptoms include the appearance of white, greyish, or yellowish fungal crusts on the surface of the bark. These crusts are typically flattened and can be easily overlooked in the early stages, but over time, they cause the bark to become brittle, leading to flaking or localized desquamation of the tissue.

• Persistent high humidity and rainfall.
• Mechanical injuries or wounds on the trunk.
• Poor air circulation within the tree canopy or orchard.
• General physiological stress of the tree due to drought or pests.

The harmfulness of Dendrothele lies in its ability to weaken the tree's defense mechanisms, making it more susceptible to further decay. Effective management involves sanitary pruning of infected branches, maintaining tree vigor through proper fertilization, and using protective coatings on any mechanical wounds to prevent fungal spore colonization.