Managing myrtle rust in Australia

Abstract

Austropuccinia psidii, commonly known as myrtle, eucalyptus and guava rust, has long been considered a significant threat to Australian plant industries and ecosystems. In April 2010, A. psidii was detected for the first time in Australia on the central coast of New South Wales. The impact A. psidii would have on plant industries reliant on Myrtaceae and native species was unknown. This project aimed to deliver a standardised method for assessing myrtle rust susceptibility and impact on Myrtaceae in Australia, and in doing so, identify species and plant communities at greatest risk, while at the same time identifying possible management options to minimise the impact of the disease on plant industries and the environment.