Plicaturopsis

Plicaturopsis is a genus of wood-decay fungi responsible for white rot in trees. These fungi act as saprotrophs, effectively breaking down the woody tissue of host plants by decomposing lignin and cellulose, which are the main structural components of tree trunks and branches.

The primary species is Plicaturopsis crispa. As a basidiomycete, it reproduces via spores that travel through the air. These spores colonize trees through wounds, including pruning cuts, storm-damaged limbs, or cracks caused by frost. Once established, the mycelium spreads internally, causing irreversible structural damage.

The fungus primarily targets deciduous trees, including birch, beech, oak, and various fruit-bearing orchard trees. Trees that are already stressed by drought, poor soil conditions, or previous pest infestations are significantly more susceptible to infection compared to healthy, vigorous specimens.

The diagnostic signs of a Plicaturopsis infection include:

• The presence of fan-shaped, wrinkled, or wavy fruiting bodies on the bark.
• Whitened, bleached, or spongy appearance of the wood upon sectioning.
• Significant loss of mechanical strength in branches, often leading to sudden failure.
• Advanced decay near old wounds, hollows, or necrotic tissues on the stem.

Management strategies focus on sanitation and preventative care. It is essential to perform proper pruning, ensuring clean cuts that heal quickly. All dead or heavily infected branches must be removed and destroyed to minimize spore dispersal. Maintaining soil fertility and proper watering helps trees maintain the natural defenses required to resist fungal entry.