A Note on Diplodia Spp. On Pines in East Africa

Abstract

Diplodia die-back is a widely distributed disease of pines caused by the wound pathogen Diplodia pinea (Desm.) Kickx (Macrophoma pinea (Desm). Petrak and Syd. Sphaeropsis ellisii Sacc.). It causes necrosis of foliage and shoots associated with insect and mechanical damage, and in extreme cases the death of whole trees can ensue. Pinus radiata, P. nigra, and P. sylvestris have been reported to be particularly susceptible to the disease at various times and places [1, 4]. Although this is a common disease it rarely causes serious loss to forest production. However in South Africa, Diplodia die-back has been so serious in hail damaged P. radiata plantations as to cause the abandonment of further planting of the species.