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Interactions Between Root Rotting Phytophthora, Abies Christmas Trees, and Environment
Kathleen M McKeever1, Gary A Chastagner2
11 USDA Forest Service, Forest Health Protection, Southern Region, Asheville, NC 28806; and.
Plant Disease
|January 23, 2019
Summary
Understanding Phytophthora root rot (PRR) in Christmas trees requires studying Abies species interactions with Phytophthora. Temperature significantly impacts PRR severity, influencing management strategies for resistant Christmas tree production.
Area of Science:
- Plant Pathology
- Forestry
- Horticulture
Background:
- Phytophthora root rot (PRR) significantly impacts Christmas tree production, necessitating a clear understanding of host-pathogen interactions.
- Regional variations in Phytophthora species and environmental factors complicate the classification of Abies species resistance.
- Previous research has often focused on limited host or pathogen species, hindering comprehensive management strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the responses of seven Abies species to four Phytophthora species under varying temperature conditions.
- To evaluate host mortality, root rot severity, and root biomass to determine resistance and pathogen aggressiveness.
- To inform the development of molecular identification tools for resistant Abies species and improve regional management plans.
Main Methods:
- A multifactorial experiment was designed to challenge seven Abies species with three isolates each of four Phytophthora species.
- Host responses were evaluated after 16 weeks, measuring mortality, root rot severity, and remaining root biomass.
- Experiments were conducted under contrasting ambient temperature conditions to assess environmental influence.
Main Results:
- Confirmed inherent variation in resistance among Abies species and aggressiveness among Phytophthora species and isolates.
- Demonstrated significant effects of ambient temperature on host mortality, root rot severity, and pathogen growth.
- Results support previous inferences about differential resistance and highlight temperature as a critical factor.
Conclusions:
- Understanding variable host responses to pathogen attack and environmental conditions is crucial for controlling Phytophthora root rot.
- Host species substitution on infested ground can be improved by considering pathogen variability and environmental influences.
- This research provides a foundation for developing targeted management strategies and molecular identification tools for resistant Christmas trees.
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