Scab disease of firethorn at selected localities in Slovakia

Abstract

The health state of firethorn, <I>Pyracantha coccinea,</I> was evaluated in different types of functional urban greenery at locations in Slovakia during 2001 (34 sites) and 2002 (18 sites). The occurrence of scab disease, caused by the fungus <I>Spilocaea pyracanthae,</I> was recorded. The degree of damage to firethorn fruits was evaluated; it ranged from 3.6% to 98.8% (2001) and from 9.1% to 38.5% (2002). Germination of conidia of the fungus ranged between 42 and 50% at 24–25°C after 24 h, and from 49% to 61% after 48 h. The germination of conidia collected on different parts of the plants from July to September was compared. Conidia taken from olive-green spots on fruits in September had the highest germination (53–89%).