@article {4335, title = {First evidence of genetic-based tolerance to red needle cast caused by Phytophthora pluvialis in radiata pine}, journal = {New Zealand Journal of Forestry Science}, volume = {44}, year = {2014}, pages = {31}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND:Red needle cast (RNC) is a new needle disease of Pinus radiata D. Don (radiata pine) in New Zealand that is causing significant, but as-yet un-quantified, loss of growth and productivity. This foliar disease has recently been attributed to the infection of the needles by Phytophthora pluvialis Reeser, Sutton \& E Hansen. Genetic improvement is seen as a possible solution to mitigate the effects of this needle disease on forest productivity.FINDINGS:To quantify the ability of genetics to provide a solution, RNC was assessed on a single clones-within-families genetics trial using two methods: the percentage needle cast that was attributable to red needle cast symptoms; and the percentage needle cast where the causal agent was not clearly identifiable. Both needle cast assessment methods were found to be heritable (h2 0.21-0.31).CONCLUSIONS:Selecting for tolerance to RNC is likely to deliver healthier trees. More assessments across a number of sites and seasons are required to confirm this result.

}, issn = {1179-5395}, doi = {10.1186/s40490-014-0028-1}, url = {http://www.nzjforestryscience.com/content/44/1/31}, author = {Dungey, Heidi and Williams, Nari and Low, Charlie and Stovold, Graham} }