Some interesting facts about Phytophthora

Phytophthora cinnamomi is recognized in Australia' s Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act(1999) as
‘A KEY THREATENING PROCESS TO AUSTRALIA' S BIODIVERSITY'

Impact on Plant Diversity

• Between 8,000 - 9,000 plant species in south-west of Western Australia.
• Approximately 2000 species are susceptible to Phytophthora cinnamomi
• Indirect effects of P. cinnamomi on plant communities is unknown.

Some Australian native plant families from which Phytophthora cinnamomi has been isolated:

Genetic Diversity of P. cinnamomi

• Introduced pathogen to Australia
• Predominantly A2 mating type only
• Three clonal lineages
• No sexual reproduction occurs

Traditional management measures

• Mapping and field demarcation of diseased areas
• Planning high risk operations during dry periods
• Restricting vehicle movement
• Preventing water movement
• Washing down vehicles and equipment
• Road building with non-infested materials
• Training of personnel in good hygiene management and operations
• Increasing public awareness

Importance of Quarantine

Not only important at a country level but at a local level (nursery to farm) as reduced chances of species mixing and opportunity of hybridization

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