Myrtle rust (Austropuccinia psidii) is a serious pathogen which has a myriad of hosts among Australian native and industry plant species. As of the end of 2020, the pathogen hasn’t ben found in Western Australia (WA), despite there being suitable habitat for its establishment. The current strategy in WA regarding myrtle rust is to ‘keep an eye out’ for susceptible species and a ban on importation of incoming Myrtaceae material. Now, the Foundation is funding a new project to supplement current activities: Dr Mariana Campos from Murdoch University is leading the development of a (1) a formal surveillance plan for WA; and (2) local laboratory testing preparedness. You can read more here …
