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Home > Weeds, Pests & Diseases > Plant Diseases > Phytophthora > Phytophthora Introduction

Phytophthora Root Rot Introduction

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Photograph showing dead grasstrees infected with Phytophthora root rot
Colour photograph showing dead grass trees infected with Phytophthora Root Rot.
Phytophthora ('fy-toff-thora') root rot is also known by the names: cinnamon fungus; jarrah dieback; wildflower dieback and by its scientific name Phytophthora cinnamomi. It is a water mould (like a fungus) that attacks the roots of susceptible plants, in many cases killing the plants. In some native plant communities, epidemic disease can develop causing the death of large numbers of plants.

It is believed to have been introduced to Tasmania following European settlement and is now well established in many areas of moorland, heathland and dry Eucalypt forest in Tasmania. Phytophthora root rot has the potential to significantly alter the ecology of these vegetation types. Many different species of plants are affected by Phytophthora root rot, such as grass trees, white waratah and Christmas bells.

Some threatened plant species in Tasmania are known to be declining as a result of Phytophthora root rot and more threatened species could also be affected should the fungus be introduced to their populations.

Phytophthora root rot may spread with the movement of infected soil or plant material by people or animals and may be transported by water percolating through the soil or in creeks. People can transport the fungus to new areas on dirt adhering to vehicles, items they are carrying or footwear. Unfortunately this fungus is hidden from view within plant roots and its symptoms can be difficult to recognise in the field.
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This page - http://www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au/inter.nsf/WebPages/EGIL-53Y38R?open - was last published on 13 November 2009 by the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment. Questions concerning its content can be sent to NatureConservation Enquiries by using the feedback form, by mail to GPO Box 44, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia 7001, or by telephone to 03 6233 6556.

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