This work describes the aetiology of Collybia fusipes root rot and the impa
ct of the parasite on the structure of mature oak root systems. The collar
roots were examined and rated for C. fusipes infection at the base of 26 Qu
ercus robur and 20 Q. rubra trees. Trees were then felled and their root sy
stems were up-rooted with a mechanical shovel. Number and infection status
of the roots present were recorded at 40, 60 and 80 cm from the trunk base.
C. fusipes drastically reduced the number of living roots. At 80 cm from t
he trunk base, on cylinder 3, Q. robur rated as lightly and heavily damaged
had only 52 and 25 %, respectively, the frequency of living roots of undam
aged trees; the values were 72 and 25 %, respectively, for lightly and heav
ily damaged Q. rubra trees. C. fusipes impacted especially the vertical roo
ts just under the collar. ((C) Inra/Elsevier, Paris.).