First report of Ophiostoma ulmi and O. novo-ulmi in Japan
During a survey carried out in 2007, the causal agents of Dutch elm disease, Ophiostoma ulmi and O. novo-ulmi, were detected for the first time in Japan. Isolates had been obtained from bark of fallen Ulmus davidiana and U. laciniata trees infested by Scolytus esuriens (Coleoptera: Scolytidae) at two sites in Hokkaido. So far, no damage on elm trees has been reported from Hokkaido. Genetic and field studies are in progress to assess the status and history of the two pathogens in Japan (e.g. endemic/invasive) and their association with the native elms and bark beetles.
Sources
Masuya H, Brasier C, Ichihara Y, Kubono T, Kanzaki N (2009) First report of the Dutch elm disease pathogens Ophiostoma ulmi and O. novo-ulmi in Japan. New Disease Reports Volume 20 (2009-09 to 2010-01). http://www.bspp.org.uk/publications/new-disease-reports/ndr.php?id=020006