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Lachnellula willkommii

European larch canker

Description

The fungus causes canker in larch. The infection enters a tree through physical bark injuries or by aphid sucking which results in microscopic wounds and deterioration of bark elasticity. The bark becomes sunken at the infection site. Tree defense mechanisms trigger callusing around bark necroses and thus the stem or twig is soon deformed. After time, the infection site can be covered with saucer-shaped fruiting bodies which are 1–4 mm in diameter, with yellowish or orange centres and white wool on the edges and underside. The disease occurs mostly in moist valleys with subdued air currents.

Symptom

Orange fruiting bodies on the trunk.

Tree Species: Larch

Part of a plant- attacked: Tree trunk

Pest significance: Harmful

Pest Category: Fungi

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes

Seasonal frequency of occurrence

Seasonal frequency of occurrence