Dothidotthiaceae

The Dothidotthiaceae family represents a group of ascomycetous fungi within the class Dothideomycetes. These fungi act as significant plant pathogens, primarily targeting the bark, branches, and woody tissues of various tree and shrub species, leading to localized or systemic tissue necrosis.

The primary nature of the disease caused by these fungi involves the colonization of host plant tissues, resulting in the breakdown of the bark and cambium layers. As the infection progresses, it disrupts the vascular system of the host plant, often causing premature dieback of branches and weakening the structural integrity of the affected plant parts.

Clinical symptoms include the development of necrotic lesions on the bark, which may appear as discolored, sunken areas or deep fissures. As the pathogen matures, small, dark fruiting bodies known as ascomata emerge through the epidermis of the host tissue, providing a distinct visual sign for identification during field surveys.

Disease progression is heavily dependent on environmental conditions, particularly high humidity and temperature regimes that favor spore germination and dispersal. Spores are disseminated by wind and splashing rain, finding entry points through wounds, frost cracks, or natural openings, which makes injured or stressed trees particularly susceptible to outbreaks.

Effective management and control of Dothidotthiaceae require integrated cultural and chemical practices to prevent further spread and promote tree vigor:

• Sanitary pruning to remove and destroy all infected plant material, which serves as a reservoir for further inoculum.
• Application of copper-based fungicides to wounded areas to prevent secondary colonization by pathogens.
• Maintaining optimal tree health through balanced fertilization and irrigation to improve natural defense mechanisms.
• Regular monitoring and early intervention in orchards to reduce the overall disease pressure within the stand.