The Municipal Affairs Bureau (IAM) said in a statement yesterday that its tree maintenance workers are trying to rescue two Chinese banyan trees, scientifically known as Ficus microcarpa, infected with brown root rot disease in the Kun Iam Statue Waterfront Leisure Area in Nape.
The statement said that during a routine inspection of trees’ conditions across the city last year, IAM tree maintenance workers observed that the two banyan trees in the recreational area, located between the Macau Science Centre (MSC) and the waterfront Kun Iam Statue, showed various signs of infection, including slight yellowing of their canopy leaves, wilting of small branches at the top of the canopies, and fungal mats emerging at the base of the trees, which are clear symptoms of brown root rot.
Consequently, the statement said, immediate measures were taken with the aim of stabilising the two trees and reducing the risk of collapse, including pruning them and installing cables around the canopies. Moreover, the statement said, various treatment measures were implemented, such as removing fungal fruiting bodies from the tree bases and applying root stimulants and fungicides.
However, the statement said, the two banyan trees infected with brown root rot disease continued to weaken, with the canopies shrinking, leaves becoming smaller, new leaves yellowing, and small branches drying out, indicating a deterioration in their condition.
The statement underlined that IAM tree maintenance workers will continue to treat the two banyan trees, closely monitoring changes in their health to take timely measures. Information boards have been placed on the two trees to inform the public of their condition, the statement said.
During the treatment of the two trees, the statement said, members of the public are advised to avoid walking near them. The bureau also said that those who notice any abnormal conditions in trees can report to the bureau via its “IAM Connect” mobile app or by calling its service hotline on 2833 7676.
This undated handout photo released by the Municipal Affairs Bureau (IAM) yesterday shows the two Chinese banyan trees in the Kun Iam Statue Waterfront Leisure Area.
