Importance and Pathogen Spectrum of Crown Rot of Banana in Jimma Town, Southwestern Ethiopia

Abstract

The present study was conducted to determine the prevalence of crown rot of banana in Jimma town and to identify the primary fungal pathogens associated with crown rot of banana. A total of four markets at Jimma town were surveyed. From each market ten banana retailers were considered for sample collection. Sample collected from this market were used to determine major pathogens associated with the disease. The survey revealed that, crown rot was found widely distributed on banana fruit in all sampled area, with 100% prevalence. A total of six fungi comprising five genera namely Colletotrichum musae, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium spp, Penicillium sp. and Rhizopus spp were found associated with the evaluated banana fruits. Among which Colletotrichum musae (46.86%) was found to be the most prevalent. The present study reviled that crown rot is the most prevalent and major challenging disease of banana caused by several fungi, which threatened the utilization of banana throughout the town. Thus, extensive research needs to be conducted across different districts to come with tangible recommendation to develop appropriate management tool to reduce the losses.

Key words: Banana, Crown rot, Postharvest, Prevalence