ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Melampsora

Melampsora is a bad guy that likes to attack plants, especially trees. He is a type of fungus that spreads through the air and can land on leaves and bark of trees. When he lands on a tree, he sticks to the surface and starts to grow tiny tubes called hyphae. These hyphae can live inside the tree's cells and make it hard for the tree to grow properly.

Melampsora can also make little spores that can travel through the air and infect other trees. When this happens, they can get sick too! Melampsora likes to attack many different types of trees, including poplar, willow, and pine trees.

If you see any signs of melampsora, like rusty spots on leaves, it's important to tell a grown-up or a professional who can help stop the fungus from spreading. We want to protect our trees so they can keep giving us fresh air and shade!