FRUIT ROT DISEASE (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Agriculture)

Context: The Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI) in Kasaragod has issued an advisory to farmers on controlling ‘kole roga’ (fruit rot disease) affecting arecanut plantations.

Fruit Rot Disease

• About: It is a plant disease that can lead to substantial losses for farmers by decreasing crop quality.
• Also Known as: ‘Kole roga’ and ‘mahali’ in Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka.
• Causes: The disease is caused by various fungi, bacteria, and viruses, making prevention and treatment challenging.
• Favorable Conditions: Heavy rainfall, low temperatures (20 to 23 °C), high humidity (>90%), and fluctuating rain and sunshine favor fruit rot.
• Symptoms: Brown or Black Spots, Softening of the Fruit, Shrivelling, and Mould Growth.
• Disease Spread: Spread through heavy wind, rain splashes, and flies.
• Common Fungal Causes

o Botrytis cinerea: The most common fungus responsible for fruit rot.

o Affected Fruits: This fungus impacts a variety of fruits including grapes, strawberries, tomatoes, and peppers.

o Entry and Spread: Enters through wounds or lesions and spreads rapidly in humid conditions.

o Toxin Production: Some fungi produce toxins harmful to humans and animals.

• Impact: Loss of Crops.