Journal of Advances in Plant Protection

Journal of Advances in Plant Protection

The expanding host range of Phaeoacremonium species associated with woody fruit decline in Iran: From grapevine trunk diseases to emerging threats in fruit orchards

Articles in Press

Document Type : Letter to the Editor

Author
Hamid Mohammadi
Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
10.22103/japp.2026.27833.1058
Abstract
Species of the genus Phaeoacremonium (Togniniaceae, Togniniales) are important vascular fungi associated with trunk diseases of woody plants worldwide. In Iran, research on these fungi initially focused on grapevine trunk diseases (GTDs); however, subsequent studies have demonstrated their extensive distribution on economically important fruit crops. Over the past two decades, studies have revealed the presence of diverse Phaeoacremonium species associated with grapevine, pome fruits, stone fruits, pistachio, almond, walnut, citrus, olive, pomegranate, and other woody hosts in the country. These fungi contribute to vascular discoloration, wood necrosis, cankers, branch dieback, and progressive decline of perennial plants. Research on these emerging fungal threats in Iran has progressed from GTD studies to the recognition of these fungi as important pathogens associated with decline and canker diseases in diverse fruit trees. Molecular methods, pathogenicity studies, and field surveys have expanded our knowledge of Phaeoacremonium diversity; however, epidemiological knowledge and sustainable management approaches remain limited. This letter highlights the historical progression of Phaeoacremonium research in Iran and emphasizes the need for integrated approaches to monitor and manage these emerging fungal threats in fruit orchards.
Keywords
Fruit tree decline
grapevine
Iran
Phaeoacremonium
trunk diseases
Journal of Advances in Plant Protection

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 07 September 2026