DIG Conference 2024
Save the Date: 20 – 22 August 2024
Murdoch University, Perth, WA
Call for abstracts is now open!
Email [email protected] to submit your abstract or be added to the 2024 mailing list.
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Arrive Clean & Leave Clean in natural areas for future generations.
Overview
Phytophthora Dieback refers to the devastating introduced plant disease caused by Phytophthora cinnamomi (pronounced Fy-tof-thora – meaning plant destroyer in Greek). There are over 140 species of Phytophthora, but the species that causes the most severe and widespread impacts to native plants in Western Australia is P. cinnamomi.
In the past, Phytophthora Dieback has been known as ‘dieback’ and ‘jarrah dieback’. Unfortunately, these names have contributed to confusion about the pathogen (a plant disease). For example, the term ‘dieback’ is also used to describe tree decline caused by other factors such as salinity, drought and insect damage. Furthermore, the disease affects a huge number of introduced and native plant species other than jarrah. Therefore, to overcome this confusion, the term ‘Phytophthora Dieback’ is now used.
Managing Phytophthora Dieback in Western Australia
Phytophthora Dieback is a widespread concern in southern Western Australia. It’s management is undertaken by a wide range of affected stakeholders from government, industry, landholders, research organisations, universities, and community groups.
In recent years, the growth in tourism and outdoor recreation such as mountain bike riding, geocaching and four-wheel vehicle activities in vulnerable forests and bushland has been a significant concern that requires significant financial investment and stakeholder engagement to mitigate the risks from these activities accidentally spreading significant plant diseases and weeds in natural areas.
This plant pathogen could be considered the most significant environmental threat to ecosystem health and biodiversity in south Western Australia!