Myrtle Rust: What is the risk to Victoria?
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Myrtle rust lesions (purple) and spores (yellow) on blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus ssp globulus) inoculated under controlled conditions. |
The main impact on Victoria’s nursery industry is extra costs due to additional trade restrictions, but its effects on plant health could also impact the forestry and beekeeping industries, public parks and gardens and native forests.
Under the right conditions, myrtle rust may slow regeneration of native forests after harvesting or bushfire and could in extreme circumstances change forest biodiversity.
The climate along the coasts of East Gippsland, South Gippsland and the Otway Ranges makes these the most susceptible areas to myrtle rust in Victoria.
Inland Victoria generally will not have suitable climatic conditions.
Wholesale, forestry and Landcare native nurseries may provide an ideal microclimate for myrtle rust, with a constant supply of susceptible, young foliage and long periods of leaf wetness.
