Lasiodiplodia theobromae

Systematic position and pathogen nature: Lasiodiplodia theobromae is a serious plant pathogenic fungus belonging to the kingdom Fungi, phylum Ascomycota, and class Dothideomycetes. It is a highly aggressive and versatile pathogen known for its cosmopolitan distribution across tropical and subtropical regions of the world.

Diseases and host plants: This fungus causes numerous diseases, including Diplodia fruit rot, dieback, stem-end rot, and trunk cankers. It affects a wide range of economically important crops, including cocoa, mango, citrus, coffee, grapevine, coconut palms, and various fruit-bearing trees.

Biology and life cycle: The pathogen survives as mycelium or pycnidia in infected plant debris, soil, and affected host tissues. Dissemination of the infection occurs through conidia, which are easily spread by wind currents, rain splash, insect vectors, contaminated pruning tools, and the movement of infected nursery stock.

Developmental conditions and virulence: The fungus thrives in warm and humid climates, with optimal growth temperatures ranging from 25 °C to 30 °C. Its virulence is high, leading to significant post-harvest losses and severe decline of orchards, which causes major economic instability in commercial agricultural enterprises.

Control and management measures: Effective management relies on integrated strategies: practicing rigorous sanitation, such as removing and burning infected branches, and maintaining proper tree spacing for air circulation.

• Application of copper-based fungicides
• Systemic fungicide treatments
• Disinfection of pruning tools
• Use of disease-free planting material