Wald threat in the Berchtesgadener Land: Brown stain disease on the rise!

Wald threat in the Berchtesgadener Land: Brown stain disease on the rise!

In the Berchtesgaden National Park, an alarming danger spreads: the "brown stain disease", generated by an invasive fungus, threatens the latschen pines and thus the entire ecosystem of this majestic area! In many places, the symptoms have already shown themselves - brown needle tips and the death of the trees, a tragedy that endangers the beauty and stability of this alpine region.

The responsible researchers initially found the aggressive mushroom, Lecanosticta Acicola, in 2022. This pest that was introduced from North and Central America not only brings mountain pines in trouble, but could also have devastating consequences for numerous other species that rely on the stabilizing function of the slippers. Barbara de Araújo, the project manager, urgently explains that sick mountain pines have negative effects on the entire microcosm in the region. "These trees are essential for the microclimate and soil stability," said de Araújo from the National Park Administration.

uncontrolled spread of the mushroom

About wind and water particles, the mushroom spreads out like an invisible enemy. Moist, warm weather conditions promote the infection and this spread happens unnoticed! It is therefore essential for the researchers to carefully observe the vegetation and take countermeasures. As part of a comprehensive project, the team placed 72 wooden boxes with tree seeds in different areas to examine the effects of the mountain pines on forest dynamics.

climate change could play a key role in spreading the Lecanosticta Acicola. Although the mushroom was identified in Germany for the first time in 1994, it now spreads in a worrying way in higher locations. Experts already warn of a possible epidemic and urgently demand stricter controls at airports to prevent the illegal imports of pine plants. These midsummer, moist conditions could cause a further increase in tree disease, and the time is pushing!