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| Courtesy of abc.au |
What is Myrtle Rust?
Myrtle Rust (Puccinia psidii s.l.) is a newly discovered fungus that is related to the Eucalyptus/Guava rusts. These are pathogens that will affect plants belonging to the family Myrtaceae. Its distinctive sign is the powdery bright yellow/yellow-orange spores that are produced in masses all over the infected plants. Leaves that are infected may become buckled or twisted and may die due to the infection. Sometimes, infected spots are surrounded by purple rings and older infections may have dark brown spores. Infection on highly susceptible plants such as eucalyptus, tea trees, and bottle brush, may result in plant death.What is the current status of Myrtle Rust on Tasmania?
One case has been confirmed near Burnie and several other cases are still under investigation. This disease poses severe threats to forestry, nursery, and beekeeping industries and to native forests, parks, and gardens. Officials are working quickly to attempt to eradicate the disease from the state, because it can be detrimental to certain species of Eucalyptus.
Sources
- http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-02-20/devastating-plant-disease-myrtle-rust-round-in-tasmania/6165346
- http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity/plant/myrtle-rust
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