The fungal pathogen Lecanosticta acicola: A new threat to the native Scots pine in Sweden

In early 2019, it was reported the discovery of a new pathogen (Lecanosticta acicola) in on pine in southern Sweden.

Huge media attention followed for what is now perceived to be a new threat to the native Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) – the second most commercially important tree species in Sweden.

The pine needle pathogen Lecanosticta acicola causes a blight disease on the current and previous year’s needles, interfering with the tree’s photosynthetic capacity and subsequently impacting the growth and even the survival of trees.Lecanosticta acicola appears to be an emerging pathogen in northern Europe, expanding its range northwards likely due human activities (plant trade and global warming).

Since its discovery in Sweden there have been several inquires from concerned forest owners and the public reporting similar-type damage to pine.

Further surveys and diagnostics are urgently needed surrounding the outbreak area and beyond (as reported to us by stakeholders and the public) to determine just how large of a threat Lecanosticta acicola poses to pine, possible distribution pathways for the pathogen, and immediate actions that can be taken by the forest authority and stakeholders to mitigate damage.

Providing the population occurs in localized areas, eradication options may still be technically viable.

We will use molecular techniques to develop a rapid, high throughput diagnostics assay and characterize pathogen populations in Sweden and northern Europe.