Signal Over 950 UK species associated with ash trees threatened by dieback

Summary

The report sees plant pests as a threat not only to crops but also to plants that underpin wider UK biodiversity. It uses the ash tree as a leading example, stating that more than 950 UK species are linked to it. Ash is currently under threat from ash dieback, so the decline of the tree could spread to the many species tied to it. The report explains that international trade and travel act as entry pathways for pests, while drought, flooding and pollution make plants more vulnerable. Environmental change linked to climate change intensifies these stresses and makes disease outbreaks more frequent and severe. Because trees provide shade, carbon capture and flood alleviation, pest damage could also affect urban environments and construction materials.