Blueberries at Risk of Disappearing Due to Fungal Threats and Increased Pesticide Use

Scientists have warned of a new threat that could lead to the disappearance of blueberries, the globally beloved fruit, due to a rapidly spreading fungus that causes crop deterioration.

According to a report published by the Daily Mail and reviewed by Al Arabiya.net, the fungus attacking blueberries manifests as a white mold on the plants, which reduces yield and increases the need for fungicide use.

Research has revealed that a fungus known as Erysiphe vaccinia has spread worldwide over the past 12 years, with one of its strains reaching China, the world's largest producer of blueberries, as well as Mexico and California. Another strain has spread to Morocco, Peru, and Portugal.

Michael Bradshaw, an assistant professor at North Carolina State University, commented, "This fungus is one of those organisms that is difficult to control. If plant material is transported around the world, it is likely to spread with it."

The global blueberry industry is valued between $47 and $530 million annually, with more than four billion pounds of blueberries sold worldwide.