XVI International Botanical Congess

Melaleuca (Myrtaceae) was purposefully introduced to regions of Florida with the intent of drying out areas of swamplands. Because of prolific seed production and lack of natural predators, its monocultures have taken the place of sawgrass marshes, forests, and other natural habitats. It is now listed as both a noxious weed and a prohibited aquatic weed in south Florida. Few reports exist concerning fungi occurring on Melaleuca spp. in the United States. Even fewer exist for possible biocontrol measures. A study is underway to inventory fungi on Melaleuca in the United States. An initial survey of fungi occurring on Melaleuca housed in herbarium BPI has revealed several previously unreported fungi, viz., Cryptothecia sp. and Tripospermum sp. A preliminary list along with descriptions of previously unreported fungi occurring on Melaleuca will be presented.