American Beech Trees Targeted by ‘Mysterious’ Disease

Scientists have yet to agree on what's causing American beech leaf disease. Photo: Ohio State UniversityScientists are disagreeing about the origins of a disease that is starting to kill American beech trees, according to Science Magazine.

The “mysterious” ailment has been spreading rapidly from the Great Lakes to New England, according to the report, causing beech tree leaves to “shrivel and develop black stripes.” Known as “beech leaf disease,” its effects were first observed in 2012.

Some scientists have stated the culprit is a leaf-eating worm hailing from Asia. However, other researchers have argued the worms are spreading a microbial pathogen that is causing the illness in the trees.

The full story can be found here.