Articles
Survey of diseases of amaranth (Amaranthus spp. L.) in Tanzania revealed multiple fungal and viral infections
Article number
1378_42
Pages
317 – 324
Language
English
Abstract
Amaranth (Amaranthus L.) is one of the traditional crops grown for its seed and as leafy vegetable in Tanzania.
It is popular in Tanzania as a leafy vegetable for its nutritional value, its adaptability to heat and drought and resistance to pests and diseases.
However, in recent years diseases and pests affecting the yield and quality of amaranth leaf have been observed.
The objective of this study was to identify important diseases associated with amaranth in the major growing regions of Tanzania.
ELISA tests showed the presence of potyviruses, Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) and poleroviruses, and begomovirus infection was detected by PCR using begomovirus universal primers.
Thirty two species of fungi from eight genera were detected, including Fusarium, Cercospora, Colletotrichum, Alternaria, Rhizoctonia, Pythium, Cladosporium, and Arthrinium. Multiple infection of a sample by two or more fungal or viral species was commonly observed.
It is popular in Tanzania as a leafy vegetable for its nutritional value, its adaptability to heat and drought and resistance to pests and diseases.
However, in recent years diseases and pests affecting the yield and quality of amaranth leaf have been observed.
The objective of this study was to identify important diseases associated with amaranth in the major growing regions of Tanzania.
ELISA tests showed the presence of potyviruses, Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) and poleroviruses, and begomovirus infection was detected by PCR using begomovirus universal primers.
Thirty two species of fungi from eight genera were detected, including Fusarium, Cercospora, Colletotrichum, Alternaria, Rhizoctonia, Pythium, Cladosporium, and Arthrinium. Multiple infection of a sample by two or more fungal or viral species was commonly observed.
Authors
W. Bihon, Zong-Ming Sheu, R. Mallogo, Jaw-rong Chen, Li-mei Lee, L. Kenyon, F.F. Dinssa, R. Srinivasan, R. Schafleitner
Keywords
amaranth, disease survey, multiple infection, weevil infection
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