Eichleriella deglubens

Eichleriella deglubens is a basidiomycetous fungus known for causing bark necrosis and wood decay in various broad-leaved trees. As a specialized wood-decay pathogen, it affects the protective layers of woody plants, often leading to significant structural degradation if the infection is left unchecked.

The host range of this pathogen primarily includes species of willow (Salix) and poplar (Populus), though it can occasionally colonize other deciduous trees. Infection is most frequent in trees that are already stressed due to environmental factors, mechanical injury, or advanced age, which provide entry points for fungal mycelium.

Symptomatology involves the formation of leather-like, shelf-shaped or effused-reflexed sporocarps on the bark surface. As the disease progresses, the bark begins to lose its attachment to the underlying wood, leading to peeling and flaking, which exposes the xylem to further decay and moisture penetration.

Environmental conditions such as high ambient humidity and extended periods of precipitation significantly favor the development and spread of Eichleriella deglubens. Spores are disseminated by wind and splashing water, allowing the fungus to infect adjacent trees during seasons with frequent rainfall and mild temperatures.

To manage and prevent the spread of this pathogen, professional arboricultural practices are essential. Key measures include:

• Pruning and removing infected branches to reduce inoculum pressure.
• Sanitizing pruning tools to prevent cross-contamination between healthy and infected trees.
• Cleaning bark lesions down to healthy tissue and applying protective wound dressings.
• Improving site drainage and overall tree vigor to enhance natural resistance against wood-decay fungi.