Mangrove CNP is a disease caused by a group of fungal pathogens: Curvularia, Neopestalotiopsis, and Pestalotiopsis. The fungal groups work together to cause disease and death in mutiple species including but not limited to: Red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle), White mangrove (Laguncularia racemosa), and Black Mangrove (Avicennia germinans).

Die-off events due to CNP and other related fungal diseases have been reported in Malaysia, Pakistan, China, Australia, Philippines, Colombia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and the US, with the earliest known report being in Miami, FL, in 2019. As mangroves are critical to shoreline health and coastal protection, a global effort must be made at disease control and treatment.

By participating in the survey, you help collect vital data that informs our treatment strategies and enables effective intervention. The process involves taking 3 simple photos of affected tree leaf, which our scientists then analyze to track the disease’s progression and impact. Your contribution is not only valuable for scientific research but also crucial for preserving the health and biodiversity of mangroves.

Jorge Pereira and Melissa Deinys at the University of Central Florida are spearheading innovative research to combat the devastating spread of CNP among mangroves. Their work focuses on understanding the disease’s transmission and developing effective treatments. By analyzing environmental conditions and pathogen behaviors, they aim to create precise strategies to halt CNP’s advance. This research not only seeks to preserve these vital ecosystems but also to provide critical insights that can be applied globally. Their dedication and expertise are pivotal in the fight to save mangroves from this lethal infection. You can read more about their work and the ongoing efforts here.