Sirococcus tsugae found in Northern Ireland (GB)
In the United Kingdom, Sirococcus tsugae (EPPO Alert List) was first detected in 2014, although symptoms had already been seen in autumn 2013. From 2014 to 2015, the fungus was found in a range of locations in England, Scotland and Wales. As in 2016 more cases were reported in the United Kingdom (i.e. 33 cases in 2015; 103 cases in 2016), a survey was also undertaken in Northern Ireland. In November 2016, 5 cases were confirmed in Belfast and the surrounding areas. As S. tsugae was found on mature trees and not associated with recently planted material, it is suggested that the fungus is also established in Northern Ireland.
Sources
DEFRA. Rapid Pest Risk Analysis (PRA) for: Sirococcus tsugae (dated December 2016). https://planthealthportal.defra.gov.uk/assets/pras/2.1-S-tsugae-PRA-v9.pdf