Tar spot on Acer pseudoplatanus leaf C017 / 7022
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Tar spot on Acer pseudoplatanus leaf C017 / 7022
A leaf of sycamore, Acer pseudoplatanus, infested with the tar spot fungus, Rhytisma acerinum, photographed in Norfolk UK in August. R. acerinum is sensitive to sulphur dioxide in the atmosphere, and is becoming more widespread even in cities. due to clean air legislation and the steep decline in the use of coal for domestic heating. In the late summer, as here, the fungus appears as melanised lesions with shiny raised spots resembling tar, surrounded by yellowing areas of leaf tissue. The presence of the fungus is not fatal to the leaf, though heavy infestations may cause premature leaf fall. The fungus overwinters on the fallen leaves. In the following Spring, the tar spots split open to reveal a green apothecium, a saucer shaped ascocarp bearing asci on its surface. These spores are carried on the wind to young leaves, where the infection begins again
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Media ID 9339655
© DR JEREMY BURGESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Acer Pseudoplatanus Air Pollution Coal Fungus Leaf Fall Sulphur Dioxide Sycamore Rhytisma Acerinum
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the intricate details of a sycamore leaf infested with tar spot fungus, Rhytisma acerinum. Taken in Norfolk, UK during August, this image highlights the impact of clean air legislation and reduced coal usage on the spread of this fungus even within urban areas. The melanised lesions adorned with shiny raised spots resembling tar are a characteristic feature of late summer infections. Surrounding these dark patches are yellowing areas indicating damage to leaf tissue. While not fatal to the leaf itself, heavy infestations may lead to premature leaf fall. During winter months, the fallen leaves serve as a refuge for the fungus until spring arrives. As temperatures rise, these tar spots split open revealing green apothecia - saucer-shaped ascocarps bearing asci on their surface. These spores are then carried by wind to young leaves where new infections take root. Interestingly, Rhytisma acerinum is sensitive to sulphur dioxide present in the atmosphere and its prevalence has been affected by improved air quality due to clean air measures and decreased use of coal for domestic heating. Dr Jeremy Burgess from Science Photo Library expertly captured this stunning image that showcases both nature's resilience and vulnerability in response to environmental changes.
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