DEADLY FUNGUS ATTACKS DAVIES PARK FIG TREES
22 November, 2006
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Large fig trees in Davies Park will be fenced off from the public in a desperate attempt to save them.
One tree is showing an infestation of the deadly Phellinus Noxius fungus [a brown root rot], Council's Environment and Sustainability Chair and Dutton Park Councillor Helen Abrahams said.
“Arborists believe this tree will die - it is simply a matter of when, not if,” she said.
The disease is highly invasive and has already killed many significant trees throughout Brisbane, including at Shorncliffe, Taringa, New Farm, Eagle Farm and within the city’s centre.
Council, in conjunction with Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries’ staff, are looking to fund a 4-year research program on Phellinus Noxius, if approved at Council’s 2nd Budget review.
“I call on the local community to understand why the trees in Davies Park have been fenced off,” she said.
“We need to know how the fungus spreads and how to treat the fungus,” Cr Abrahams said.
“We also need to know which trees are resistant to this threat so we can replant a new tree on the same site - it is also very important to find out how to dispose of the infected timber.
“The fungus attacks the roots of the trees through sap, causing root rot and in time the fungus circles the tree, which effectively ring-barks the tree.”
The fungus was identified several months ago in the tree at Davies Park and it now encircles the base of the tree.
The research group will carry out an “archaeological’ dig of the roots of the infected tree and neighbouring trees.
“Opening the roots to air may delay this infestation,” Cr Abrahams said.