Artocarpus anthracnose

Colletotrichum artocarpicola is a fungal pathogen responsible for causing anthracnose in various species within the Artocarpus genus. As an ascomycete fungus, it colonizes plant tissues, causing significant structural damage and necrosis. It is recognized as a major limiting factor for breadfruit and related species production in tropical climates.

The host range is primarily focused on members of the Moraceae family, particularly the breadfruit tree (Artocarpus altilis). The pathogen is highly specialized in infecting leaf tissues, petioles, and the developing fruit surface. If left unmanaged, the fungus can cause substantial yield losses and weaken the tree's physiological structure.

Symptoms typically manifest as necrotic lesions that begin as small, water-soaked spots. As the fungus progresses, these lesions turn dark brown or black, often with a yellow halo around the edges. Under humid conditions, the pathogen produces conidial masses, often appearing as slimy, orange-pink pustules on the infected surface of the fruit or leaves.

The development and spread of C. artocarpicola are heavily dependent on environmental conditions. High relative humidity, persistent rainfall, and warm temperatures facilitate the germination of spores. The pathogen is disseminated mainly through water splash, wind-blown rain, and the movement of infected plant material or contaminated gardening tools.

Effective management requires an integrated approach to disease control. Key strategies include:

• regular removal and destruction of infected plant debris to reduce inoculum sources;
• proper pruning to ensure optimal canopy ventilation and light penetration;
• maintaining plant vigor through balanced fertilization;
• application of appropriate fungicides during high-risk rainy seasons, focusing on copper-based products or systemic fungicides according to local agricultural guidelines.