The laboratory analysis of forest pathology samples conducted by specialists of SSE "Kharkivlisozakhyst" is an important component in the system of forest monitoring and protection against diseases and pests. The main purpose of such research is to establish an accurate diagnosis of the causes of forest stand damage, identify types of pathogens or pests, and assess the threat they pose to the forest. This allows for prompt decision-making regarding necessary forest health improvement measures or prevention of damage spread.
The analysis begins with specialists visiting the affected area, where they conduct a thorough examination of forest plots and collect samples - fragments of needles, bark, wood, leaves, roots, soil, as well as live or dead insects. These samples are delivered to the laboratory under special conditions that guarantee the preservation of their properties.
In the laboratory, microscopic, mycological, entomological, and phytopathological studies are conducted. Specialists examine the morphological characteristics of pathogens, cultivate pathogenic organisms on nutrient media, identify pest species, determine the degree of damage, and potential ways of its spread. For example, among typical disease pathogens, root rot (Heterobasidion annosum) may be detected, which affects roots and the lower part of the trunk, or necrotic fungi of the Armillaria genus.
