Data from: Current and projected global distribution of Phytophthora cinnamomi, one of the world’s worst plant pathogens

Globally, Phytophthora cinnamomi is listed as one of the 100 worst
invasive alien species and active management is required to reduce impact
and prevent spread in both horticulture and natural ecosystems.
Conversely, there are regions thought to be suitable for the pathogen
where no disease is observed. We developed a CLIMEX model for the global
distribution of P. cinnamomi based on the pathogen's response to
temperature and moisture and by incorporating extensive empirical evidence
on the presence and absence of the pathogen. The CLIMEX model captured
areas of climatic suitability where P. cinnamomi occurs that is congruent
with all available records. The model was validated by the collection of
soil samples from asymptomatic vegetation in areas projected to be
suitable by the model for which there were few records. DNA was extracted
and the presence or absence of P. cinnamomi determined by high throughput
sequencing (HTS). While not detected using traditional isolation methods,
HTS detected P. cinnamomi at higher elevations in eastern Australia and
central Tasmania as projected by the CLIMEX model. Further support for the
CLIMEX model was obtained by using the large dataset from southwest
Australia where the proportion of positive records in an area is related
to the Ecoclimatic Index value for the same area. We provide for the first
time a comprehensive global map of the current P. cinnamomi distribution,
an improved CLIMEX model of the distribution, and a projection to 2080 of
the distribution with predicted climate change. This information provides
the basis for more detailed regional scale modelling and supports risk
assessment for governments to plan management of this important soil-borne
plant pathogen.