Ganoderma zonatum

Ganoderma zonatum is a species of fungus in the family Ganodermataceae. It is a basidiomycete fungus that is known for causing butt rot in palm trees. The fungus is native to the Southeastern United States, but has been found in other parts of the world.

Description

Ganoderma zonatum is a polypore fungus, meaning it has a fruiting body with pores or tubes on the underside. The fruiting bodies are semi-circular or kidney-shaped, and can be up to 30 cm in diameter. They are brown to reddish-brown in color, with a shiny, varnished appearance. The spores are brown and elliptical in shape.

Habitat and distribution

Ganoderma zonatum is native to the Southeastern United States, but has been found in other parts of the world, including the Caribbean and Central America. It is a saprophytic fungus, meaning it feeds on dead or decaying organic matter. In particular, it is known to cause butt rot in palm trees, a disease that leads to the decay of the lower part of the tree trunk.

Pathology

Ganoderma zonatum causes a disease known as Ganoderma butt rot. The fungus infects the tree through wounds in the lower trunk or roots, and causes decay of the heartwood. The disease can lead to the death of the tree, and there is currently no known cure. The best method of control is prevention, which includes avoiding injury to the tree and removing and destroying infected trees.

See also

• Ganoderma
• Ganoderma lucidum
• Ganoderma applanatum