Factors influencing pathogenicity ofFusarium tumidumon gorse (Ulex europaeus) (original) (raw)

Factors promoting pathogenicity of Fusarium tumidum Sherb., were determined as part of an overall objective of using insects as vectors of F. tumidum conidia for biological control of gorse (Ulex europaeus L.). Maximum infection was caused with an inoculum concentration of 10^6 conidia/mL, and a minimum of 900 viable conidia was required to form lesions. Wounding enhanced infection rates, especially in younger plants, highlighting that nutrient release from wounds may facilitate pathogen growth. Supplementing F. tumidum suspension with gorse extract similarly reduced shoot dry weight, indicating potential alternative methods for enhancing pathogen efficacy in biological control strategies.