@MoultonCollege The British Society of Plant Pathology met on the 16th and 17th September, at the University of Reading, to discuss ‘Protecting our Woodlands: tackling tree pests and diseases’. Julia Lock, who is currently undertaking research into replant disease on Rowan trees, attended for one day to disseminate her results. Whilst in attendance she made the following observations: “The meeting started with the emphasis being put on the aesthetic and financial value of trees that are currently in a dire state due to the impact of diseases, such as: Chestnut blight; Cypress canker; and White Pine blister. The increasing occurrence of disease in trees has been attributed to globalisation and the need for trade, resulting in increased container shipping. With this frequent movement of plants (cuttings, root balls, transplants and other forms) comes a rapid transportation of pathogens and pests. The problem is made worse when asymptomatic plants (those carrying disease but not displaying disease) are sold on as healthy stock. This morose view, portrayed by Professor Woodward of the University of Aberdeen, was followed by current research into the genomics, diagnostic identification, molecular tracking, and lineage studies of particular pathogens. Especially fascinating, in my view, was a talk by Dr Cunniffe, from the University of Cambridge, who is utilising mathematical modelling to predict the spread of a disease, such as Ash dieback, in order to identify areas at risk and the hazard that the disease could cause. This type of work, integrated with other current research in other fields of plant pathology, could serve to provide another level of data which informs future decisions on control of pests and diseases.”
Posted on: Thu, 19 Sep 2013 14:57:24 +0000
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