Dermateaceae

The Dermateaceae family represents a significant group of ascomycetous fungi known for causing various diseases in plants, ranging from leaf spots to necrotic cankers and fruit rots. These fungi are characterized by their ability to form leathery apothecia, which serve as dispersal structures. As specialized pathogens, they target the structural integrity of woody and herbaceous plants alike.

These pathogens predominantly affect horticultural and orchard crops, including apples, pears, and various berry species. The damage is often insidious, as the infection may remain latent in the fruit or branches for a period before showing symptoms. Economically, they represent a significant challenge for fruit producers, as they can cause extensive post-harvest rot and branch dieback in orchards.

Common symptoms include localized necrotic lesions, sunken cankers on twigs, and discolored spots on ripening fruit. In advanced stages, the infected areas develop characteristic fruiting structures that appear as small, often disc-shaped bodies. If left unchecked, the fungus can girdle branches, leading to systemic weakness or the death of entire limbs and even the host plant itself.

Disease development is highly dependent on environmental factors, specifically high humidity, frequent rainfall, and moderate temperatures. The fungi thrive when plants are already stressed by environmental conditions or physical injuries such as hail damage or pruning wounds. Spores are primarily dispersed via wind-blown rain and splashing water, allowing the disease to spread rapidly throughout the canopy.

Integrated pest management (IPM) is essential for controlling Dermateaceae infections. This includes maintaining optimal canopy hygiene through rigorous pruning of infected wood and the removal of mummified fruit. Chemical interventions, including the application of fungicides during dormancy and key growth stages, are vital to prevent spore germination. Ensuring balanced nutrition and proper tree vigor also helps mitigate the severity of infections.

• Regular pruning of infected branches
• Sanitizing pruning tools between trees
• Clearing and destroying fallen plant debris
• Applying protective fungicide sprays in early spring