Institute of Forest Ecology
Topic
Diversity of fungi transmitted by the beech bark beetle on the European beech
PhD. program
Year of admission
2025
Name of the supervisor
Mgr. Katarína Pastirčáková, PhD.
Contact:
Receiving school
Fakulta prírodných vied a informatiky UKF
Annotation
Rising temperatures, caused by climate change, are making European beech (Fagus sylvatica) more susceptible to biotic stressors. The health of beech stands, which perform essential ecological and environmental functions in the landscape, has been negatively affected by the beech bark beetle (Taphrorychus bicolor) in recent years. Bark beetles carry microscopic fungi on their body surface, which find optimal microclimatic conditions for growth and development in bark beetle galleries, whereas pathogenic species can cause serious diseases of the host tree. The aim of this PhD thesis is to determine the species diversity of fungi associated with populations of the beech bark beetle that damage beech stands in various locations across Slovakia, with special emphasis on pathogenic fungal species. The methodology will encompass both field research and laboratory analyses. The PhD thesis has the potential to bring new knowledge regarding diversity, distribution, and bionomics of beech pathogens in Slovakia. Its findings can significantly enrich approaches to more effective strategies for the protection and management of beech stands, which are important for maintaining sustainability, biodiversity and ecological stability of forest ecosystems. Thesis will be part of national projects.