Instant Insights: Fungal diseases of apples

This collection features four peer-reviewed literature reviews discussing fungal diseases of apples.

The first chapter discusses the main pre- and postharvest pathogens affecting apple production. The chapter also reviews recent advances in biological, chemical and cultural forms of disease management to optimise production, maintain fruit quality and enhance sustainability.

The second chapter reviews the epidemiology of apple scab. The chapter explores the role of host resistance, as well as techniques to manage apple scab and minimise crop losses, including fungicide application and the use of biocontrol agents.

The third chapter reviews preharvest fungal and bacterial diseases as well as viruses of tree fruit. It looks at advances in technology for pathogen detection as well as methods of integrated disease management, including biological and cultural control.

The final chapter reviews the development of apple varieties that are resistant to a number of important diseases, including apple scab, powdery mildew, fire blight, nectria canker and Marssonina apple blotch. The chapter also considers the use of DNA-based selection techniques for developing resistance and the mechanisms on which resistance depends.