Research

Research projects

New fungal pathogens of Aesculus hippocastanum in Europe and the deterioration of its condition due to the correlation with Cameraria ohridella

The horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) is widespread in Europe, but is increasingly suffering from climate change. Fungal pathogens and infestation by the leaf miner moth (Cameraria ohridella) are severely affecting the trees. To investigate the effects of climate change, we conducted a study along a south-west to north-east European transect covering six countries and ten urban forest areas. Around 700 trees and 750 symptomatic leaves were examined.

Research projects

New pathogens in urban areas in Germany increase the safety risk posed by trunk and branch cancer

Urban trees are increasingly threatened by rising temperatures, drought and extreme weather events. These stress factors force trees to expend their energy on adapting to unfavourable conditions, weakening them and making them more susceptible to pest infestation and disease. At the same time, heat-loving insects and microorganisms are spreading in our regions, as they find ideal habitats in the changing climatic conditions.

Research projects

Investigation of invasive fungal pests in sequoia trees under drought stress

The giant sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum) is one of the most impressive tree species in the world and is also commonly found in urban areas in Germany, such as Freiburg. However, climate change is putting this majestic tree species under increasing pressure. Rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns are leading to drought stress, which weakens the trees and makes them more susceptible to infection by invasive fungal pests.