Pitch canker caused by Fusarium circinatum - a growing threat to pine plantations and forests worldwide

Pitch canker, caused by the fungus Fusarium circinatum, is one of the most important pathogens of Pinus species. Sporadic outbreaks and epidemics caused by this fungus have been reported from numerous countries. Symptoms differ depending on the host species, geographical region, climatic conditions and associated insects. Pitch canker represents a significant threat to countries where non-native and susceptible Pinus spp. are grown intensively in plantations. A thorough understanding of the ecology and epidemiology of the causal agent is an important prerequisite to managing this threat. The aim of this review is to summarise contemporary knowledge relating to the pitch canker pathogen, with a particular focus on its threat to plantation forestry.