Leucogastraceae fungi

The Leucogastraceae family consists of hypogeous fungi that typically live in symbiotic relationships with tree roots. However, in specific forest nursery conditions, these organisms can act as stressors, disrupting the plant's nutrient uptake by interfering with or replacing beneficial mycorrhizal associations.

The pathogen spreads primarily through spore dispersal in soil and via root-to-root contact. When conditions become favorable for the fungus, it transitions from a beneficial or neutral state to one that aggressively occupies the root zone, leading to physiological stress in the host plant.

Forest seedlings, particularly oak, beech, and various conifers, are the most susceptible. The disease is most damaging during the early stages of seedling development when the root system is not yet fully robust, making the plant highly vulnerable to nutritional deficits caused by the fungus.

Symptoms are often subtle and develop slowly. They include:

• Stunted height growth and lack of vigor.
• Yellowing of foliage (chlorosis) due to nutrient deficiency.
• Root tip necrosis and decay in the rhizosphere.
• Poor survival rates after transplanting to the field.

To control Leucogastraceae, nursery managers must prioritize soil health and drainage management. If an infection is identified, systemic fungicides should be applied, and the use of healthy, sterilized soil media is essential. Preventing waterlogging is the most critical preventative measure to inhibit the spread of these fungi.