Fungal genomics challenges the dogma of name-based biosecurity

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Authors

McTaggart, Alistair R.
Van der Nest, Magrieta Aletta
Steenkamp, Emma Theodora
Roux, Jolanda
Slippers, Bernard
Shuey, Louise S.
Wingfield, Michael J.
Drenth, Andre

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Volume Title

Publisher

Public Library of Science

Abstract

Microorganisms have inadvertently been spread via the global movement and trade of their substrates, such as animals, plants, and soil. This intercontinental exchange in the current era of globalisation has given rise to significant increases in the distribution of known pests and pathogens. Importantly, it has also resulted in many novel, emerging, infectious diseases. Biosecurity and quarantine, which aim to prevent the establishment of foreign or harmful organisms in a non-native area, are under significant pressure due to the massive increases in travel and trade. Traditionally, quarantine regulations have been implemented based on pathogens that already cause significant disease problems on congener hosts in other parts of the world (e.g., Q-bank, available at http://www.q-bank.eu). Well-known pathogens are described, named, and studied to determine their disease cycle, epidemiology, and impact. Their importance is assessed based on their risk of infection, establishment, and economic or environmental consequences. This then shapes phytosanitary practices.

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Keywords

Sustainable Development Goals

Citation

McTaggart AR, van der Nest MA, Steenkamp ET, Roux J, Slippers B, Shuey LS, et al. (2016) Fungal Genomics Challenges the Dogma of Name-Based Biosecurity. PLoS Pathog 12(5): e1005475. DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1005475.