Insights into Fusarium wilt of tomato (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici) and its management strategies

Article Information

Title: Insights into Fusarium wilt of tomato (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici) and its management strategies

Authors: Iqra Kanwal, Atika Iffat, Muhammad Bilal Shaukat, Talha Shafique, Yasir Majeed, Muhammad Irfan Zafar, Hassan Moatasam Awan, Irum Tabbasum, Adeeba Iqbal, Muhammed Tatar, Parnaz Mortazavi, Amjad Ali, Rahma Bejaoui, Humera Aslam, Farwa Seemab

Journal: Journal of Agriculture and Biology

HEC Recognition History

Category	From	To
Y	2024-10-01	2025-12-31

Publisher: Agribiol (SMC-Private) Limited

Country: Pakistan

Year: 2024

Volume: 2

Issue: 1

Language: English

DOI: 10.55627/agribiol.002.01.0837

Keywords: TomatoManagementFusarium wiltMolecular characterization

Abstract

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum), a widely cultivated vegetable rich in vitamins, minerals, and health-promoting antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin C, faces significant production challenges. Among these, Fusarium wilt, caused by the soilborne fungus Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici (FOL), is a prevalent and destructive disease in tomato-growing regions worldwide. FOL, a highly damaging ascomycete fungus, poses a serious threat alongside the large populations of nonpathogenic F. oxysporum (NPF) residing in various ecological niches. The disease manifests initially with yellowing of lower leaves, followed by progressive wilting. FOL invades the tomato plant, colonizing the vascular tissue and causing its discoloration to a dark brown hue. This discoloration extends upwards, ultimately leading to wilting, collapse, and plant death. The wilting syndrome is attributed to a complex interplay of factors induced by the fungus, including xylem blockage by fungal mycelia, production of mycotoxins, suppression of host defense mechanisms, and formation of tyloses (cellular outgrowths).. Managing Fusarium wilt is challenging due to the extended survival of the pathogen and its existence in diverse pathogenic races. Conventional approaches, such as deployment of resistant cultivars and application of synthetic fungicides have shown limited efficacy. Additionally, the potential environmental hazards associated with fungicides necessitate a cautious approach. This review explores the use of both chemical and biological control agents in Fusarium wilt management, acknowledging the limitations of single-method strategies. To achieve sustainable and environmentally friendly disease control, an integrated approach is recommended. This review aims to equip farmers with a diverse toolbox of management methods that can be combined into a comprehensive package to combat Fusarium wilt and related soil borne diseases.

Disclaimer: The following sections are produced through an intensive multi-stage analytical pipeline developed by DefinePK, utilizing advanced natural-language processing, domain-specific knowledge models, and automated cross-referencing systems. Despite the rigor and computational effort involved, the generated summary may still contain inaccuracies or incomplete interpretations. Users are strongly advised to verify all critical information against the original paper and its authoritative sources.

Research Objective

To review and synthesize current knowledge on Fusarium wilt of tomato (caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici - FOL), its impact, and explore both chemical and biological management strategies, advocating for an integrated approach.

Methodology

This is a review article. It synthesizes information from existing literature on Fusarium wilt of tomato, covering its causes, symptoms, distribution, and various management strategies, including chemical and biological control agents.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A[Literature Review on Fusarium Wilt] --> B[Analysis of Pathogen Characteristics];
    B --> C[Evaluation of Management Strategies];
    C --> D[Identification of Chemical and Biological Controls];
    D --> E[Advocacy for Integrated Disease Management];
    E --> F[Recommendations for Sustainable Tomato Production];

Discussion

The review emphasizes the challenges in managing Fusarium wilt due to the pathogen's persistence and diverse races. It discusses the limitations of chemical fungicides and highlights the potential of biological control agents as environmentally friendly alternatives. The article advocates for an integrated approach that leverages the strengths of different management strategies to achieve effective and sustainable control of Fusarium wilt.

Key Findings

Fusarium wilt is a destructive disease of tomato caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (FOL), leading to significant yield losses. Conventional management methods like resistant cultivars and fungicides have limited efficacy and pose environmental risks. Biological control agents, particularly Trichoderma harzianum, show promise in reducing wilt severity and improving plant growth. An integrated disease management (IDM) approach, combining various methods, is recommended for sustainable control.

Conclusion

Fusarium wilt remains a significant threat to tomato production. While chemical control has drawbacks, biological control agents offer a promising avenue for sustainable management. An integrated disease management strategy, potentially incorporating judicious use of fungicides alongside biological and cultural practices, is crucial for long-term success in combating Fusarium wilt and ensuring sustainable tomato production.

Fact Check

* Annual crop yield losses due to pathogens and pests are estimated at US$220 billion. (Confirmed by general knowledge of agricultural losses).
* Tomato production in Pakistan reached a total of 536,217 tonnes in 2008. (Confirmed by the text).
* Fungal pathogens are responsible for approximately 80% of plant diseases. (Confirmed by the text).

Mind Map

Loading PDF...

Loading Statistics...

DefinePK

Select Collection