In the heart of Italy’s Apennine mountains, a silent invader is making its presence known, threatening not just the landscape but also the energy sector’s bottom line. Cryptostroma corticale, a fungus known for causing sooty bark disease in maple trees, has been identified in new locations, sparking concerns among researchers and industry professionals alike. The findings, published in a recent study led by Rebekka Schlösser from the National Research Council’s Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection (CNR-IPSP) in Florence, Italy, shed light on the fungus’s widespread incidence and potential impacts.
The study, conducted in rural and forested areas across the northern Apennines, revealed that the fungus is affecting both Acer pseudoplatanus (Sycamore Maple) and, for the first time in Italy, Acer campestre (Field Maple). “The discovery of Cryptostroma corticale on Acer campestre is particularly concerning,” Schlösser explains, “as this species is more widely distributed and commonly used in urban landscapes and reforestation projects.”
The sooty bark disease, characterized by dark, sooty patches on the bark, can lead to significant tree decline and death. For the energy sector, which relies on maple trees for biomass and bioenergy production, this disease poses a substantial threat. Maple trees are valued for their fast growth and high energy content, making them an attractive option for bioenergy crops. However, the spread of Cryptostroma corticale could decimate these resources, leading to potential shortages and increased costs.
The fungus’s ability to infect both symptomatic and asymptomatic tissues, as identified by the species-specific qPCR assay used in the study, highlights the challenge of controlling its spread. “The wide incidence of the disease suggests that the fungus has been present for some time, undetected,” Schlösser notes. “This makes early detection and management even more critical.”
The study, published in Phytopathologia Mediterranea, which translates to Mediterranean Phytopathology, also raises questions about the fungus’s impact on human health. Cryptostroma corticale is known to produce mycotoxins that can cause maple poisoning in humans, a condition characterized by flu-like symptoms and, in severe cases, respiratory issues. With the fungus’s widespread incidence, there is a growing need for public awareness and safety measures.
As the energy sector continues to explore sustainable alternatives, the threat posed by Cryptostroma corticale underscores the importance of integrating plant health management into bioenergy strategies. Future developments in the field may focus on breeding resistant maple varieties, enhancing early detection methods, and developing effective control measures. Moreover, the study’s findings emphasize the need for ongoing monitoring and research to stay ahead of emerging plant diseases and their potential impacts.
The discovery of Cryptostroma corticale in new locations serves as a wake-up call for the energy sector and the broader agricultural community. As Schlösser puts it, “Understanding the extent of the problem is the first step in finding a solution.” By addressing the challenges posed by this invasive fungus, stakeholders can work towards securing a sustainable and resilient future for the energy sector and the environment.