Hitching a Ride

This interesting article in New Scientist points out that the nursery industry isn't the only vector in the spread of sudden oak death (Phytopthora ramorum). Researchers have found evidence that hikers are spreading the fungus as well, albeit on a more local level. A study done in California found that when the fungus was found along forest trails, it was rarely detected in soil samples as little as two meters away.

Thanks to the UBC Botanic Garden blog for posting a link to this story.