Rigidoporus lignosus (Klotzsch) Imaz commonly called white
root rot is the pathogen most feared by planters throughout
the rubber-growing regions of the world (Rao 1975; Nandris
et al. 1983) except in India (Jayasinghe 2010). White root rot is
a silent killer, their above ground symptoms are produced
once the roots are fully damaged. Presently it is spreading at
a disturbing rate resulting in bare patches in rubber lands.
These bare patches remain as a source of inoculum for infection
(Ogbebor et al. 2013). The disease originates on roots and
spreads to the collar region. Foliar symptoms are initiated subsequently
with the destruction of the root system (Jayasinghe
2010). Its above ground symptoms indicate that the trees are
mostly beyond treatment and recovery, as rapid progress of
infection makes death imminent