2025/04/07 by Frédéric Suffert, Kevin JG Meyer, Valérie Laval +3 · 1 voice
Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · Agricultural and Biological Sciences · #Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies #Wheat and Barley Genetics and Pathology #Berry genetics and cultivation research
paper · pdf · doi:10.1101/2025.04.07.647624
The rust fungus Uromyces plumbarius Peck was reported in Europe for the first time on Oenothera lindheimeri (Engelm. & A. Gray) W.L. Wagner & Hoch (Lindheimer's beeblossom), a highly popular ornamental plant widely cultivated since the 2000s. The fungus was found in 11 locations across France and two locations in the Netherlands. The identification was based on an analysis of morphological characteristics and 28S rDNA sequences. The pathogenicity was confirmed through reinoculation using fresh urediniospores. This represents the first record of U. plumbarius outside its native range in North America. Its widespread distribution in France appears to result from rapid dissemination, likely facilitated by the plant trade between nursery gardeners. The discovery of U. plumbarius was accompanied by the detection of the hyperparasitic fungus Sphaerellopsis sp. and fungivorous larvae of Mycodiplosis sp. - two native, non-specific natural enemies which may play a role in limiting the impact of rust infections.