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Botryosphaeriaceae Species Causing Stem Blight and Dieback of Blueberries in Serbia

Summary

Researchers in Serbia studied fungal diseases affecting blueberry plants and identified four different disease-causing fungi. They found that Lasiodiplodia iraniensis, a fungus previously unknown on blueberries worldwide, is now infecting Serbian blueberry orchards. The study shows that the ‘Duke’ blueberry variety is more susceptible to infection than other varieties, and that the disease likely spreads through infected planting materials used to establish new orchards.

Background

Blueberry production in Serbia is rapidly increasing but is threatened by fungal diseases caused by Botryosphaeriaceae family members. These pathogens are significant threats to blueberry production worldwide, particularly in newly planted orchards, with disease incidence reaching nearly 20% in some regions. The health status of planting material is a major factor contributing to rapid spread of these diseases.

Objective

To identify and characterize Botryosphaeriaceae species causing stem blight and dieback in Serbian blueberry orchards, determine their taxonomic position through molecular analysis, and evaluate the susceptibility of different blueberry cultivars to infection.

Results

Four Botryosphaeriaceae species were identified: Neofusicoccum parvum (most prevalent at 34.75%), Botryosphaeria dothidea (13.98%), Diplodia seriata (6.25%), and Lasiodiplodia iraniensis (3.91%). Diplodia seriata and L. iraniensis were detected on blueberries in Serbia for the first time, and L. iraniensis was detected on blueberries worldwide for the first time. The ‘Duke’ cultivar was significantly more susceptible to L. iraniensis than other tested cultivars.

Conclusion

Multiple Botryosphaeriaceae species are responsible for stem blight and dieback in Serbian blueberries, with L. iraniensis representing a novel pathogen. The presence of pathogens in newly planted orchards suggests planting material as the primary source of infection, emphasizing the critical importance of using pathogen-free planting stock to prevent disease establishment.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi,
  • Study Type:Original Research,
  • Source: PMID: 41003232
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