The most significant parasitic and saprophytic fungi on common mistletoe (Viscum album L) and their potential application in biocontrol

Abstract

Common mistletoe (Viscum album L) is a semiparasitic angiosperm, which attacks a great number of broadleaf and coniferous tree species. Especially high damage is caused by subspecies V. album subsp. abietis, which infests fir trees. This paper presents the most frequent parasitic and saprophytic fungi occurring on common mistletoe. There are altogether 22 identified species, of which the most significant are Botryosphaeria dothidea Gibberidea visci and Sphaeropsis visci. Further study should be focused on testing their potential use in the biocontrol of common mistletoe.