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Neofusicoccum (fungal canker pathogen)
Description
Neofusicoccum is a fungal plant pathogen belonging to the Botryosphaeriaceae family. While not a cactus clone itself, it is a significant pathogen affecting *Trichocereus* species, most notably the Predominant Cultivar (PC) *Trichocereus pachanoi*. The host plants typically feature 5 to 8 rounded ribs, a light green to glaucous blue-green epidermis, and short, upturned yellowish spines arising from white felted areoles. When infected with Neofusicoccum, the host's epidermis develops dark, sunken fungal cankers and necrotic lesions that compromise the plant's aesthetic and structural integrity. The pathogen is slow-moving and rarely transfers to scions or new pups, though transmission remains possible if left unchecked.
History & Origin
The identification of Neofusicoccum (often spelled “Neofussicoccum” in community discussions) within *Trichocereus* collections was highlighted by community expert Gee Bee in early 2026. The pathogen is known in broader agriculture, but its specific impact on cultivated *Trichocereus* stands, particularly PC during winter, has been documented through community observations. The original environmental source or vector of the pathogen in these collections remains undocumented.
Cultivation Notes
To manage and suppress Neofusicoccum infections, growers must employ targeted chemical controls, as standard organic treatments like sulfur may not be fully effective.
- Fungicide Rotation: A combination of Mancozeb (a broad-spectrum contact fungicide) and Thiophanate-methyl (a systemic fungicide) is highly recommended. Rotating these two active ingredients provides full control and suppression of the pathogen.
- Products & Sourcing: Thiophanate-methyl is commercially available under the brand name TM 4.5 (manufactured by Quali-Pro). Because these commercial-grade fungicides may face shipping restrictions on major platforms like Amazon depending on state regulations, hobbyists often source smaller, repackaged portions of Mancozeb on eBay.
- Application: It is recommended to use a “rain guard” formulation of the fungicide and mix it with a surfactant to ensure the spray adheres to the slick, waxy cuticle of the cactus.
- General T. pachanoi Care: Keep plants dry and well-ventilated during cold winter months, as damp, cold conditions correlate with symptom expression.
Community Discussion & Citations
The community consensus strongly supports the dual-fungicide treatment protocol proposed by Gee Bee and validated by professional agricultural experts.
| Date | Speaker | Key Insight/Quote |
|---|---|---|
| 2026-03-16 | Gee Bee | “Neofussicoccum, treat with Mancozeb and Thiophanate methyl” |
| 2026-03-16 | Chris Cosby | “Gee Bee I'm seeing a little of this rn too” |
| 2026-03-16 | Michael Jager | “Gee Bee Awesome! Thanks!! I'm going to order those.” |
| 2026-02-02 | Gee Bee | “Botryosphaeriaceae species is likely, mancozeb and Thiophante methyl” |
| 2026-02-02 | Dushi Kaunt | “I know I'm going to get hate over this, but this will most likely never transfer to your scion or to the new pups but it is not impossible and should be treated with thiophante methyl at least to get it suppressed. but with mancozeb In the rotation you'll be able to get full control of this specific pathogen this is a no joke combo of fungicides and I highly reccomend you listen to GEE BEE on this, this is coming from a federal and state licensed PCA with 20 years in commercial agriculture production.” |
| 2026-02-09 (approx) | Dushi Kaunt | “qualpro has a product called TM 4.5 this is the same fungicide as thiophante methyl is just a brand name version. you will most likely not find it local unless you have a fertilizer salesperson you are food friends with. It can be found on Amazon or eBay though as well most times it” |
| 2026-02-09 (approx) | Jesse Joseph Scrabonia | “eBay sellers have smaller portions of mancozeb for sale if you aren't a big grower and don't want to drop the money on a large bag. A little go a long way with the stuff.” |
| 2026-02-09 (approx) | Jesse Joseph Scrabonia | “I also recommend getting the rain guard version and a surfactant.” |
Credibility Notes
- Gee Bee (10/10): Designated as a topic expert override. Their diagnostic and treatment recommendations form the basis of the community's management strategy.
- Dushi Kaunt (9/10): A federal and state licensed Pest Control Adviser (PCA) with 20 years of experience in commercial agricultural production, providing high-authority professional validation for the chemical treatment protocol.
- Jesse Joseph Scrabonia (7/10): Provided highly specific, practical advice on sourcing smaller quantities of commercial fungicides and optimizing application using surfactants.
- Chris Cosby & Michael Jager (6/10): Active community members who confirmed the presence of the pathogen in their collections and validated the adoption of the recommended treatment.