Control and management of Phytophthora damage in forestry—A systematic mapping study

Abstract

Plant pathogens in the genus Phytophthora are a severe threat to forest plantations, ecosystems and tree nurseries. Especially in forests and natural ecosystems, there is a lack of effective measures to control and manage these pathogens. In this study, we conducted a systematic mapping review to collate evidence regarding the control and management of forest Phytophthora in different production settings and ecosystems. The study aimed to reveal possible knowledge gaps, thus guiding future research priorities. We extracted information from nine databases, limiting the search to studies published during the time period from January 2010 to December 2022. The articles were shared between three reviewers who classified the reports using a set of inclusion/exclusion criteria. A total of 561 articles were included and mapped in a database using pre-defined coding, and critically appraised for relevance and reliability. The analysis showed that biological or bio-based measures were the most studied interventions, followed by genetics or breeding programmes, whereas chemical and silvicultural management approaches were less studied. Most of the studies were conducted in Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand. Phytophthora cinnamomi has been the most studied species followed by P. ramorum. We discuss the current knowledge gaps in the implementation of existing research, likely due to a lack of holistic understanding of the processes over time and space, and suggest future research that is needed to manage Phytophthora in forest ecosystems.