The potential role of a Phytophthora species in Eucalyptus gomphocephala (tuart) decline in southwest Western Australia

Scott, P., Barber, P., Burgess, T.ORCID: 0000-0002-7962-219X, Shearer, B., Colquhoun, I., Jung, T. and Hardy, G. (2007) The potential role of a Phytophthora species in Eucalyptus gomphocephala (tuart) decline in southwest Western Australia. In: 11th International Mediterranean Ecosystems (MEDECOS) Conference (2007), 2 - 5 September, Perth, Western Australia.

Abstract

Introduction: Eucalyptus gomphocephala is a unique keystone canopy species endemic to a narrow (5-10 km wide) coastal strip approximately 300 km in length in the southwest of Western Australia. E. gomphocephala is undergoing a significant decline throughout large sections of its remnant distribution within Yalgorup National Park, and in some areas resulting in 100% mortality (Barber et al. 2007). Fine feeder root damage and root necrosis has been observed in declining E. gomphocephala across a range of sites. In addition, tree injection trials with phosphite, a chemical known to induce host defence responses to Phytophthora species, have resulted in increased crown vigour and health. These observations indicate that a Phytophthora species could be associated with tuart decline. The aim of the current study was to determine whether Phytophthora species are associated with E. gomphocephala decline.

Item Type:	Conference Item
Murdoch Affiliation:	Centre for Phytophthora Science and Management School of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology
URI:	http://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/id/eprint/7112

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