First report of Schizophyllum commune associated wood rot on almond in Uzbekistan

This study reports the first occurrence of Schizophyllum commune causing wood rot and dieback in almond trees in Uzbekistan. Severe symptoms, including cankers, twig dieback, and extensive wood decay, were observed in a commercial orchard in Ortacirçik, Tashkent, affecting approximately 35% of the trees. The pathogen was isolated and identified using morphological and molecular techniques targeting ITS and LSU regions of rRNA, with pathogenicity confirmed through Koch’s postulates. This study underscores the need for integrated management strategies, including early detection and mitigation practices, to address the challenges posed by wood-decay pathogens and highlights the importance of further research on the epidemiology and resistance mechanisms of S. commune.