Distribution of Fusarium spp. agents responsible for Fusarium Wilt of banana in Southern Benin

Abstract

Fusarium wilt of banana caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense is one of the most important fungal diseases in banana growing areas. It constitutes a major problem for the intensification of banana production in Republic of Benin. This study analyzed the phenotypic and pathogenic diversity of Fusarium strains with a view to sustainable control. A survey was carried out in 72 fields located in eight (8) communities (Missrété, Sakété, Adja-Ouèrè, Avrankou, Adjara, Ifangni, Tori and Allada) to assess the prevalence of banana Fusarium wilt. The communities of Avrankou showed a low percentage (12.59%) of disease incidence while the highest (61.11%) was recorded in the commune of Missrété. During survey, 11 banana varieties were identified, such as, “Avlan”, “Planta”, “Ganhikokoé”, “Akpagbo”, “Gbogui”, “Goukokoé”, “Sotunmon”, “PITA3”, “Péripita”, “CRBP755”, “50C”. The cultivar “Avlan” was found to be the most susceptible to Banana Fusarium wilt with 63.30% disease incidence. The phenotypic characterization performed on 86 isolates resulting from the samples of different origins, was able to identify two groups of isolates proving to be similar in terms of behavior towards the various tests carried out. These were Fusarium oxysporum with 77 isolates and Fusarium graminearum with 09 isolates. The results of the pathogenicity tests highlighted the symptoms of Fusarium oxysporum observed in the field. This is the first time that Fusarium wilt of banana has been reported in Benin.

Key words: Bananas, Benin, Fusarium oxysporum, Fusarium wilt, isolates