ScienceNetwork, Western Autralia
Written by Nic White Saturday, 14 January 2012
Scientists have discovered numerous new species of the water-mould Phytophthora in WA’s forests, heathland and waterways, some of which could pose a threat similar to the deadly Phytophthora cinnamomi, the most well-known cause of Phytophthora Dieback.
The new species include Phytophthora multivora, elongata, thermophila, fluvialis, arenaria, constricta, litoralis, gibbosa and gregata, which had not previously been found anywhere else, and eight exotic species never recorded before in WA.
The new species were identified using recent DNA technology that enabled them to be distinguished from similar species.
WA Department Environment and Conservation research scientist Mike Stukely says P.thermophila and P.constricta are among the most destructive and have been associated with “devastating” plant mortality in coastal heathlands following heavy summer rainfall.