Papery bark (Sappy bark)
Trametes versicolor
Also Known As - Sappy bark (Papery bark),Turkey tailWhat is Sappy bark, Turkey tail (Trametes versicolor)?
Trametes versicolor, also known as Coriolus versicolor and Polyporus versicolor, is a mushroom found worldwide. It has distinctive concentric rings and a papery texture, resembling a turkey tail. This mushroom prefers dead or decaying hardwood, especially beech and oak, and thrives in moist and temperate environments like forests and woodlands. It has immune-boosting and anti-cancer properties, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential medical applications.
How does Sappy bark, Turkey tail (Trametes versicolor) occur?
The disease enters tree limbs and larger branches through pruning cuts. Infected bark and wood tissues decay, leading to a spongy and discolored appearance. The affected bark may peel away, revealing decayed tissue underneath. In humid conditions, the bark looks spongy, while in dry conditions, it appears papery. Dark sap may ooze from diseased areas, and spore-producing structures can form along the edges. Bark cankers can encircle branches or, if on the trunk, cause tree death.
Symptoms
1 - Plant Decomposition and Nutrient Recycling
Trametes versicolor plays a role in the natural decomposition process by breaking down dead or decaying plant material, aiding in nutrient recycling and facilitating their availability to other plants and organisms in the ecosystem.
2 - Biodiversity Support and Soil Enrichment
Mushrooms provide habitat and food sources for various organisms, contributing to overall biodiversity in ecosystems. Its presence can enhance soil health by promoting the decomposition of organic matter, releasing nutrients back into the soil and improving its fertility.
3 - Disease Suppression
Some studies suggest that Trametes versicolor may have biocontrol properties, inhibiting the growth of certain plant pathogens and contributing to disease suppression in the surrounding environment.
4 - Ecological Succession
Trametes versicolor can be part of the early stages of ecological succession, colonizing dead or decaying wood and facilitating the transition to a more diverse plant and fungal community.
Solutions
6 - Cultural Practices
• Keep trees healthy and properly maintained, as healthy trees are less susceptible to fungal infections. • Promptly remove and destroy infected wood, including stumps, fallen branches, and dead trees. This helps prevent the spread of the fungus to other trees. • Ensure good air circulation around trees by spacing them properly and avoiding overcrowding. This helps reduce the favorable conditions for fungal growth. • Minimize tree wounds by preventing mechanical damage, such as from lawnmowers or construction equipment. Promptly treat any wounds that do occur to prevent fungal entry points.
7 - Trearment
• Practice proper pruning techniques to remove dead or diseased branches from trees. This helps minimize the risk of infection. • Fungicides: In some cases, fungicides may be used as a preventive measure. Fungicides such as copper-based, triazole, and dicarboximide fungicides can be used to prevent and control Trametes versicolor. • Consult with a professional arborist or plant pathologist for guidance on appropriate fungicide applications.
