Powdery Mildew of Rubber in Papua.

Abstract

The first record in Papua of powdery mildew of rubber, caused by Oidium heveae, was made in September, 1967. How, where or when the fungus entered the country is not known. A survey carried out during the subsequent two months showed that the disease was present in the Central, Gulf, Milne Bay and Northern Districts, with the heaviest infections leading to leaf fall and flower blight in the Central District, nearest to the main port of entry. In an endeavour at least to slow down the spread of the disease to the islands and isolated areas an internal restriction on movement of unprotected rubber material was proclaimed in December, 1967.