Phytophages and mycobiots of white mistletoe

Abstract

Aim. The aim of the study was to investigate the natural antagonists of white mistletoe (Viscum album L.), which may affect the number and speed of spread of this species. Methods. The plant material of  V. album, collected in urban plantations of Kyiv, was used in the study. The research was conducted mainly in park zones and urban plantations of Podilskyi district. Samples of affected white mistletoe were collected by the route method during 2019-2021. Plant material was also inspected during the sanitary cutting of utilities. Results. Different species of vertebrates and invertebrates, fungi, lichens and bacteria that form close ecological links with V. album were analyzed. It has been established that several species of fungi can parasitize on V. album, showing a fairly high level of specialization. Hyperparasitic disease has also been reported. Conclusions. A list of species associated with white mistletoe was identified and the possibility of their use in the development of biological methods to control the semi-parasite was assessed.