butternut canker
Butternut canker is a fungal disease that primarily affects butternut trees, causing significant damage to their bark and overall health. The disease is caused by the fungus Sirococcus clavigignenti-juglandacearum, which leads to sunken lesions on the tree's trunk and branches. Infected trees may exhibit wilting leaves and dieback, ultimately resulting in tree mortality.
This disease poses a serious threat to butternut populations, particularly in North America, where the species is already vulnerable due to habitat loss and other factors. Management strategies include monitoring for symptoms, removing infected trees, and promoting the growth of resistant tree varieties to help preserve the species.