Phytophthera...

[Fauna]

...those that are not familier with this "pathegen" please take a look at the pdf leaflet below.

Snippet from SEWBREc...

Phytophthora ramorum (formerly known as 'Sudden Oak Death') and Phytophthora kernoviae are two fungus-like pathogens which affect a range of trees, shrubs and other plants. They have the potential to threaten a variety of important UK habitats, including native heathland, ancient woodland and forestry, heritage parks and gardens, and also the horticultural trade.

There has been a coordinated approach to disease control aimed at containment and eradication of these pathogens since the first UK findings in 2002. In 2009 the decision was reached that more needed to be done, and a 5-year programme was launched with the aim of containing the risk from spreading further. The 3 main work streams are research and development, education and awareness raising, and disease control through clearance of host plants in high risk areas.

Three of the key host plants are Rhododendron, Vaccinium and Japanese Larch, but this list is by no means exhaustive. Symptoms of infection can vary with the type of plant infected. On shrubs, typical symptoms can include blackening of leaves around the midrib and at the tips, and/or wilting and dieback of shoots. Trees can show black lesions (called cankers) on the bark, which 'bleed' a dark sap. You can help: Please report any suspected Phytophthora outbreaks or vast Rhondodendron stands (including landowner details if known) to Kevin Izzard, Higher Phythophthora Project Officer at Fera (Food & Environment Research Agency): Email: kevin.izzard@fera.gsi.gov.uk; Tel: 01792 313047.

http://www.fera.defra.gov.uk/plants/...licLeaflet.pdf

Regards Chris...