Occurrence of Phytophthora citrophthora on cocoa in India*

Authors

  • P. Chowdappa Central Plantation Crops Research Institute, Regional Station, Vittal - 574 243, India
  • R. Chandra Mohanan Central Plantation Crops Research Institute, Regional Station, Vittal - 574 243, India

Keywords:

Cocoa, Black pod disease, Phytophthor a citrophthora, India

Abstract

The natural incidence of black pod disease of cocoa caused by Phytophthora citrophthora is reported for the first time from India. The identity of the fungus was established on the basis of cultural and morphological characters. Isolates produced papillate, non-caducous, and highly variably shaped sporangia. None of the isolate produced chlamydospore or oospores. The cardinal temperatures were 12, 24-27, and 33°C, respectively. The isolates consistently produced symptom similar to those observed in natural infections on both wounded and unwounded Forastero cocoa pods, and the fungus was re-isolated from the inoculated pods.

Issue

Section

Research Notes