Cracks in the bark may signify the presence of a fungal spore mat. Photo courtesy of University of Minnesota Plant Pathology Department. | Fungal mats of the oak wilt fungus are produced underneath the bark. These mats smell fruity and attract Nitidulid beetles. Photo courtesy of University of Minnesota Plant Disease Clinic. |
Nitidulid beetles are thought to carry spores of the oak wilt fungus to healthy trees. These beetles do not feed directly on the bark but require a wound for feeding and introducing the fungus into the tree. |
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