Myrtle rust (Uredo rangelii) was detected on 23 April 2010 on a cut flower growing property on the central coast of NSW. Myrtle rust is a fungal species that has been described as part of the guava rust (Puccinia psidii) complex. It infects a broad range of hosts in the Myrtaceae family, including various Eucalyptus and Melaleuca species.
This study tested a range of species for susceptibility to U. rangelii. Unfortunately U. rangelii rust infected a number of eucalyptus species, including those used in plantations and native forestry in NSW and Queensland. The report recommends that forest production nurseries be made aware of the implications of myrtle rust affecting seedlings of susceptible species, and of management options for if/when myrtle rust expands its geographic range in Australia.
Reference Number:
PRC179-0910
