Research Project

New fungal pathogens of Aesculus hippocastanum in Europe and the deterioration of its condition due to the correlation with Cameraria ohridella

The horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) is widespread in Europe but is increasingly suffering from climate change. Fungal pathogens and infestation by the leaf miner (Cameraria ohridella) place severe stress on the trees. To investigate the impacts of climate change, we conducted a study along a southwest–northern Europe transect, covering six countries and ten urban forest areas. Approximately 700 trees and 750 symptomatic leaves were examined.

Research Project

New pathogens in urban areas in Germany increase safety risks due to stem and branch necroses.

Urban trees are increasingly threatened by rising temperatures, drought, and extreme weather events. These stress factors force the trees to expend their energy adapting to unfavorable conditions, weakening them and making them more susceptible to pest infestations and diseases. At the same time, heat-loving insects and microorganisms are spreading in our regions, finding ideal habitats in the changing climate conditions.

Research Project

Dothistroma spp. and Lecanosticta acicola on non-native pine species in German cities

Urban environments are increasingly recognized as important refuges for plant diversity, as they host a variety of non-native Pinus species planted for their tolerance to urban stress factors. However, these geographically diverse Pinuscommunities can act as epidemiological hubs, where resident European fungal pathogens can easily expand their host range to colonize pine species. This three-country study, covering Germany, France, and Switzerland, assessed the threat posed by major fungal pathogens to 58 non-native pine species.