Work

A risk index for fusiform rust disease predicts mortality and stem defect in genetically improved Pinus taeda plantations

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: • A rust risk index gives the percentage of trees with disease symptoms at a base age. • We fit mortality and defect models for Pinus taeda plantations including rust risk. • Mortality at stand age twelve years depended strongly on the rust risk index. • Rust risk increased defect rates, although other sources of defect were common. • Continued investment in resistance breeding will increase forest productivity.

Source: Forest Ecology and Management

DOI: 10.1016/j.foreco.2026.123916

Authors: Mariano A. Trachta, Trevor D. Walker

Institution: North Carolina State University

Language: English

Topic: Forest ecology and management

Subfield: Nature and Landscape Conservation

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Life on land

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,560