The vine disease occurs exclusively in certain regions in the south of the USA and the north of Mexico. The disease was first described in 1888 and is known as Phymatotrichopsis root rot, Texas root rot or ozonium root rot. Due to its aggressive spread and the complete destruction of the vines, it is one of the most dangerous root diseases in the affected regions.
The disease is caused by the soil-borne fungus Phymatotrichopsis omnivora (formerly Phymatotrichum omnivorum). It thrives preferentially in alkaline, calcareous clay soils in warm and humid weather. Infection occurs via the root system and can spread underground over large areas. Vineyards in the US states of Arizona, Texas and New Mexico, as well as Mexico, are particularly at risk.
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