In Vitro Efficacy Evaluation of Agrochemical Fungicides in the Mitigation of Colletotrichum Capsici Infection

Abstract

Chili, (Capsicum annuum) a highly sought-after spice, holds the third position in global popularity following tomatoes and potatoes. It is a member of the Solanaceae family and boasts extensive cultivation worldwide. However, the cultivation of chili faces formidable challenges, primarily stemming from diseases that afflict this crop. Bacterial, fungal, and viral infections constitute significant threats, leading to substantial reductions in crop yield. Notable among these are pre-harvest fungal diseases, such as anthracnose, cercospora leaf spot, charcoal rot, choanephora blight (wet rot), and viral conditions like leaf curl and mosaic virus. Anthracnose, triggered by Colletotrichum capsici, is particularly devastating, accounting for approximately 50% of chili crop losses. It manifests as sunken necrotic tissues with distinctive concentric rings of acervuli, often appearing moist. These symptoms render chili fruits less marketable, thereby diminishing overall profitability for farmers. Anthracnose further impairs seed germination and plant vigor as it can spread through seeds and the atmosphere. To combat this detrimental disease, several fungicides, including Carbendazim, Antracole, Aliette, Acrobet, and Dithane M 45, have undergone evaluation. Among these, Carbendazim has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in inhibiting the growth of Colletotrichum capsici colonies. In summary, successful chili cultivation necessitates meticulous management and robust disease control measures. Farmers must remain vigilant in identifying and addressing the array of diseases that pose a threat to this vital vegetable crop. This abstract underscores the issues faced, outlines the methodology employed, and presents findings crucial for the chili cultivation industry.