Turkey tail

Trametes versicolor, commonly known as turkey tail, is a fungus within the genus Trametes, phylum Basidiomycota. It is primarily recognized as a white-rot fungus that functions as a saprotroph, though it can act as a pathogen on stressed or wounded woody plants.

This pathogen targets various hardwood species, frequently appearing on fruit trees and ornamental trees. The infection typically occurs through physical wounds, pruning cuts, or damaged bark, where the fungal hyphae enter the xylem and begin to digest the wood structure.

The biology of the organism involves the growth of perennial, fan-shaped fruiting bodies with distinct concentric color zones. The fungus releases basidiospores that colonize new wound sites. Once established, the mycelium secretes enzymes that efficiently break down lignin and cellulose within the host's wood.

Development is favored by high humidity, moderate temperatures, and the presence of dead or decaying wood matter within the canopy. Because it thrives in wet conditions, orchards with poor drainage or neglected maintenance are at higher risk of infection and subsequent colonization.

The damage caused by Trametes versicolor includes internal wood decay, which compromises the tree's structural integrity, leading to branch failure and overall decline. Control strategies focus on prevention and sanitation:

• Prune away diseased wood and dispose of it away from the orchard.
• Use sharp, sterilized tools to minimize damage during pruning.
• Treat large pruning wounds with protective fungicides or sealants.
• Maintain tree vigor through proper fertilization and irrigation.