The most significant parasite and saprophyte fungi on mistletoe (Viscum album L.) and possibilities of their usage in bio-control

Abstract

Because of the large damage on fir in RS, made by mistletoe, there was the research of possibilities of its control by applying biological measures. Therefore, parasite and saprophyte mikoflora which settles the bushes of mistletoe was researched, and the possibility of its use in biocontrol of this half-parasite flowering plant was examined. Out of 27 found species of fungi, Botryosphaeria dothidea, Gibberidia visci, Nectria cinnabarina and Sphaeropsis visci have the perspective of being used in biological control. Research results, acquired with this work, point out that researched parasite fungi cannot destroy or eradicate mistletoe, and that their usage in bio-control needs to be combined with other available measures.