The false oak polypore (Fomitiporia robusta) causes oak rot. This fungus also affects chestnut and apple trees, though less frequently. Fomitiporia robusta causes yellowish-blue striped heartwood trunk rot that develops in the lower part of trunks of various oak species. It first destroys the heartwood, then penetrates into the sapwood, cambium, and phloem, causing heartwood-sapwood rot.

Fomitiporia robusta is widespread throughout all oak forests of the right-bank forest-steppe zone and in Crimea. However, given its sporadic occurrence (found in less than 5% of affected stands) and the fact that it doesn't cause tree mortality, it's classified as a medium-hazard fungus. Tree infections typically begin at 20-30 years of age. It poses particular danger to plantations of southern oak (Quercus pubescens), which, according to research by P.H. Taranenko, shows higher susceptibility to this fungus compared to pedunculate oak (Quercus robur).

Control and Protection Methods

• Implementation of selective cuttings
• Forest pathological surveys

Conclusions

The false oak polypore (Fomitiporia robusta) is a widespread parasitic fungus that causes heartwood trunk rot in oaks and causes significant damage to Ukrainian forests, especially in regions with predominant maturing and mature tree stands.

A comprehensive approach to monitoring and controlling Phellinus robustus will help stabilize forest conditions, reduce rot spread, and ensure long-term preservation of oak forests in Ukraine.

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