Witches' Broom Formation in Conifers Infected by Arceuthobium spp.: An Example of Parasitic Impact upon Community Dynamics

摘要: We discuss witches' broom formation by the parasitic angiosperm, Arceuthobium spp., and potential contribution of those brooms to shaping structure coniferous forest communities in which they are found. causes an eventual decrease growth vigor any individual tree on it is Brooms result from infection play important role reproduction parasites. The some host species also appear destabilize stands. increase mortality rate probability fire stand. modification stand function influences many organisms besides species. Many animals take advantage habitat broomed branches provide, while other use Arceuthobium, or tissues associated with infections, as food. suggest that adaptive parasite populations and, ways, well. Without question, trees represent a unique resource forested ecosystems.