Epidemiology and control of banana corm rot

Abstract

A new inoculation technique was developed and used to screen banana accessiOns for resistance to the disease. Of the 73 banana varieties screened so far, 25 show tolerance/resistance to the disease with zero disease incidence in plant crop and 1st ratoon. Adequate knowledge of the resistance mechanisms in these plants would contribute to the successful improvement of commercial banana varieties.
Mancozeb, but not copper, inhibited the growth of the bacterium in vitro, and is comparable to tetracycline, chlorine and Farm Cleanse. Endophytic and rhizosphere bacteria have been isolated and successfully tested against E.c. and other soil pathogens. These disease control techniques require further testing in the field to determine the effective rates and appropriate methods of application.
The aetiology and epidemiology of banana corm rot in Queensland is now better understood.
Moreover, chemical and non-chemical control options have been evaluated to prevent or reduce infection of the corm. An integrated control approach will be devised and scheduled
for testing on commercial banana plantations in 2002. By 2006, a new technology on banana corm rot management would be available for adoption by the banana industry to reduce the impact of the disease on yield.