First report of Mycosphaerella pini in Czech Republic
In spring 1999, Mycosphaerella pini (Ascomycetes, Dothideales – EU Annexes) was observed during a nursery survey on Pinus nigra ssp. austriaca plants which had been imported as 3 consignments in autumn 1998 from Hungary. According to the biology of the disease, it is thought that these Pinus plants were already infected at the place of production. The identity of the fungus was determined by the laboratory of the Mendel University of Agriculture and Forestry in Brno. All imported plants were traced back and burned.
The first outbreak of Mycosphaerella pini in field-grown trees was found in May 2000 in a plantation of Christmas trees of Pinus nigra. During subsequent inspections performed in spring and summer, further outbreaks were recorded on plants of Pinus nigra, P. mugo, P. leucodermis and P. ponderosa. According to current records, these findings of M. pini in Czech Republic represent the most northern records in Europe.
The situation of M. pini in Czech Republic can be described as follows: Present, subject to official control.
Sources
NPPO of CZ, 2001-09.