Three New Records of Pathogens Causing Stem Blight on Vaccinium corymbosum in China
Researchers in China identified three new fungal species causing stem blight disease in blueberry crops. These fungi infect blueberry stems, causing brown lesions that kill the shoots and leaves. Laboratory tests confirmed all three fungi can cause the disease, with one species being particularly aggressive. This research helps farmers understand and manage this economically important disease that damages 10-25% of China’s blueberry crops.