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ARS Home » Northeast Area » Frederick, Maryland » Foreign Disease-Weed Science Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #292186
Title: Phytophthora megakarya

Author
item Widmer, Timothy
item HEBBAR, PRAKASH - Animal And Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

Submitted to: Forest Phytophthoras
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 9/6/2013
Publication Date: 9/30/2013
Citation: Widmer, T.L., Hebbar, P.K. 2013. Phytophthora megakarya. Forest Phytophthoras. doi: 10.5399/OSU/fp.3.1.3386.

Interpretive Summary: Forest pathogens are a worldwide concern that can significantly affect biodiversity and economical investments. A fungal species that attacks cacao in Central and West Africa has serious effects on chocolate production. This study lists the characteristics of the fungal species, the trees that it infects, and some management strategies. This information will be helpful especially to growers, scientists, and extension personnel who need a quick reference for this fungus.

Technical Abstract: The only economically important host known of Phytophthora megakarya Brasier & Griffin is Theobroma cacao, causing black pod disease. Isolates of P. megakarya were originally grouped with P. palmivora isolates until 1979, when it was recognized as a new species. Found only in Central and West Africa, losses due to black pod disease caused by P. megakarya can be 50-80 percent in non-treated areas.