Aspects of the ecology of aphyllophorales in pine and eucalypt plantations in Zimbabwe

Some aspects of the ecology of 73 species of fungi of the order Aphyllophorales (Basidicmy cetes) in 38 genera and 11 families are presented and discussed. On pines S3 species were saprotrophic, one was mycorrhizal and saprotrophic, but none was pathogenic. Sixteen of these were brown-rot fungi. On eucalypts 32 species were recorded and only four were brown-rot fungi. There was distinct substrate specialization by the species. Locality and seasonal variation in the occurrence of species was evident. The fungi could be grouped into five overlapping mycogeographical groups at the species level but the divisions became blurred and indistin guishable at genus and family levels respectively. Aspects of the practical exploitation of Aphyllophorales are covered. The need to monitor parasite status in plantations and undertake culture and wood degradation studies is highlight ed. Decay of timber in service is briefly discussed. Finally, conclusions and interim recom mendations for Zimbabwe are made.