Lophodermium agathidis . [Descriptions of Fungi and Bacteria].

Abstract

A description is provided for Lophodermium agathidis. Information is included on the disease caused by the organism, its transmission, geographical distribution, and hosts. DISEASE: Lophodermium agathidis occurs on dead attached and fallen leaves. Virtually nothing is known about the ecology of this fungus. It seems likely however that, like many other members of the Rhytismataceae, the fungus colonizes the living plant, then fruits on those leaves after they have died. HOSTS: Leaves of Agathis australis, Beilschmiedia tawa, Dracophyllum latifolium, Knightia excelsa, Metrosideros excelsa, M. fulgens, Nestegis lanceolata, Rubus cissoides, Xeronema callistemon. Described originally on A. australis, this species is now known to occur commonly on many different native New Zealand plants. GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION: New Zealand. TRANSMISSION: By air-borne ascospores in humid conditions.