The fungus Heterobasidion annosum is, in economic terms, the most important causal agent of disease of yield loss in coniferous trees in northern temperate regions. This book will be an indispensable source of information for all those involved in the management of coniferous forests and plantations wishing to reduce the impact of this disease on yields.
Historical aspects - biology and infection biology of heterobasidion annosum: current taxonomy of the genus heterobasidion; detection of diagnosis of heterobasidion annosum; biology of heterobasidion annosum; diagnosis and differentiation of intersterility groups; distribution of heterobasidion annosum intersterility groups in Europe; spore dispersal and primary infection; spread within the tree and stand; host resistance; biochemistry of the host-parasite interaction; molecular and genetic regulation of the host response. Disease control: modelling of disease development in stands; biological methods of control; chemical methods of control; silvicultural control; economic appraisal of the benefits of control treatments. Impact, control and management of heterobasidion annosum root and butt rot in Europe and North America: the nordic countries; the UK and Ireland; Germany and Austria; France; Italy; Eastern Europe; North America.
"Heterobasidion annosum is a destructive root decay pathogen of temperate zone conifers worldwide, causing extensive growth loss and mortality. . . . With the exception of the first chapter on the historical aspects of H. annosum, the book is organized into four major parts that deal with biology, host resistance, disease control, and disease impact of this pathogen, in that order. Each of these parts consists of chapters written by well known H. annosum researchers, comprehensively addressing the topics pertaining to the respective chapters. . . . The illustrations and photographs in the book are well utilized to clarify points or procedures discussed in the text. . . . In conclusion, I believe this book to be a major contribution to forest pathology and particularly to the study of this pathogen. Students, researchers, and practitioners concerned with this root disease will find this book an asset."--ForestScience