Extensive surveys assessing the impact of Myrtle rust (Austropuccinia psidii) were conducted following the 2019/20 wildfires. The two reports are now available for download from our website and make for sobering reading. Myrtle rust symptoms and damage were found in all survey sites in fire-affected areas of south-east Queensland and NSW south to the Central coast region. New host species have been identified including Leptospermum speciosum (Showy tea tree), Eucalyptus pyrocarpa (Large-fruited blackbutt) and Eucalyptus amplifolia subsp. amplifolia (Cabbage gum). Significant impacts were identified on the endangered Rhodamnia rubescens (Scrub turpentine) and Uromyrtus australis (Peach myrtle). Myrtle rust symptoms have been observed for the first time on Eucalyptus pilularis (Blackbutt) and Syncarpia hillii (Satinay) on World Heritage K’gari (Fraser Island). Regeneration of Melaleuca quinquenervia (Broad-leaved paperbark), particularly in New South Wales, is of concern with the loss of established trees, and only 15 to 35% of seedlings showing evidence of resistance. Melaleuca nodosa (Prickly-leaved paperbark) is highly susceptible to Myrtle rust with only small numbers of trees showing resistance/tolerance to the disease. Longer-term monitoring of all sites is required to understand the impacts of Myrtle rust on Myrtaceae regenerating after wildfire. The ANPC would like to thank the Threatened Species Recovery Hub for funding this project.
Fire and Rust reports released
