Blueberry Crops Threatened by Global Fungus Outbreak, Scientists Warn

A rapidly spreading fungus, Erysiphe vaccinii, poses a severe threat to global blueberry crops, jeopardizing yields and food security.

By yourNEWS Media Newsroom

Blueberry crops worldwide are under threat from a rapidly spreading fungal disease caused by Erysiphe vaccinii, a powdery mildew that has already led to staggering annual losses ranging from $47 million to $530 million. This fungus not only reduces yields but also compels farmers to rely heavily on fungicides, escalating both costs and environmental concerns.

The disease, first identified in the eastern United States, has spread globally over the last 12 years through the trade of plant materials. Major blueberry-producing regions, including China, Mexico, Morocco, Peru, Portugal, and California, are grappling with the devastating effects of the fungus. According to researchers at North Carolina State University, the spread involves two distinct fungal strains: one prevalent in China, Mexico, and California, and another found in Morocco, Peru, and Portugal.

The fungus reproduces asexually outside the United States, enhancing its ability to adapt to diverse climates such as the humid fields of China and the arid conditions of Morocco. Within the United States, it reproduces both sexually and asexually, further complicating efforts to control its spread.

The economic impact is profound for the global blueberry industry, which produces over four billion pounds of fruit annually. Beyond reduced harvests, the need for increased fungicide use adds to farmers’ burdens while raising environmental and health concerns. The Pacific Northwest, known for its optimal blueberry-growing conditions, is particularly vulnerable due to its rainy climate, which could become a breeding ground for the fungus.

This crisis underscores the urgent need for stricter biosecurity measures and sustainable farming practices to mitigate the risks of future outbreaks. Lessons from combating Erysiphe vaccinii could also inform the management of other powdery mildews affecting crops like wheat, grapes, and strawberries, safeguarding global food systems against similar threats.

Efforts to address the crisis will require international cooperation and investment in research to protect this vital fruit and the livelihoods of farmers worldwide.

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