The effect of the fungicide phosphite on pollen germination and fertility

The fungicide phosphite (previously known as phosphonate) is a cheap and effective means of controlling Phytophthora cinnamomi Rands (the fungus that causes jarrah dieback) (1,2). \n \nTo date, studies have focused on the effect and mechanism of action of phosphite on P. cinnamomi and its effects on agricultural species and native Western Australian plants which are under threat from P. cinnamomi. The fungicide appears to have minimal phytotoxic effects on the vegetative parts of the plant (3). The phytotoxic effects of phosphite on flowers and reproduction has not been studied in detail.