Antimycotic Properties of Potentials Botanical Crude Extracts and Bio-Control Agent against Fusarium Wilt of Chili caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. capsici

Abstract

Fusarium wilt is a devastating disease of Chili in Pakistan and its management is very difficult. Therefore the studies were conducted in in-vitro conditions. Mmycelium appeared were yellow, reddish-brown or blue-black in color. Macro conidia short, straight, or 40-75 x 25.5-5 micron and long 5-8 septate. Micro conidia consist of 1-3 septate, with a short beak and 22-48 x 3.4 microns. The results showed that the disease is present in high frequency throughout the districts surveyed. The maximum disease incidence was recorded in Hyderabad (55%) whereas; the incidence of the disease from the Tando Allahyar district was recorded up to (35%). The used botanical extracts showed high variation in reducing the colony growth of the fungus. All the botanical extracts significantly reduced the mycelial growth of Fusarium oxysporum. Eucalyptus leaves was found most effective in reducing the colony growth of the fungus at their highest dose (6.33 mm), Aloe suppress the fungal mycelial growth (21.00 mm). Whereas the Mari gold reduce the fungal growth (25.33 mm) and Mint leaves (26.33 mm). All the botanical extracts at their respective doses significantly retarded the growth of fungus as compared to control (82.00 mm). Trichoderma spp. as bio control agent was tested in-vitro condition against Fusarium oxysporum and significantly reduced the mycelial growth of Fusarium oxysporum. Trichoderma spp. reduces the activity of the Fusarium oxysporum (10.00 mm) as compared to control (82.00 mm). Based on the in-vitro result Eucalyptus leaves extract can be effectively used for field experiment. These studies will be helpful for researchers and growers.