A new species of Ceratocystis causing blue-stain in Araucaria araucana

Abstract

In southern Chile two species of Ceratocystis were found to be responsible for most of the initial blue stain in logs and lumber of Auraucaria araucana (Mol.) K. Koch. The more important Ceratocystis auraucariae Butin sp. nov. and its Verticicladiella conidial state are described and illustrated. This species is characterized by a fast-growing brown mat of mycelium, small, long-necked perithecia, and cylindrical, slightly curved ascospores. Ceratocystis moniliformis (Hedge.) C. Moreau, Melanconiopsis elzoi Speg., Epicoccum nigrum Link, and Cladosporium sp. were found as associated fungi.