# Ash dieback is a communicable disease in plants caused by the fungal pathogen Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. Describe how ash dieback spreads between trees and explain the measures that can be taken to limit its spread.

> Eduqas A-Level Biology — 3.5 Human impact on the environment · Describe and Explain · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Ash dieback spreads through the air (airborne transmission of spores / fungal spores carried by wind)
2. Ash dieback spreads through the movement of diseased ash plants or infected logs
3. Ash dieback can be carried on people or animals moving through infected areas
4. Washing animals, cars and boots when leaving an infected area prevents spread (linked to limiting spread)
5. Do not move infected plants / burn infected trees to limit spread

## Key terms

- [ash dieback](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/ash-dieback)
- [Hymenoscyphus fraxineus](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/hymenoscyphus-fraxineus)
- [communicable disease](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/communicable-disease)
- [pathogen](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/pathogen)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas A-Level Biology](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe and Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/ash-dieback-is-a-communicable-disease-777e0aaf) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.