Microbiological Technology

Identification of fungal species associated with chilli fruit disease in North-Central Vietnam

Chilli (Capsicum spp.), is a vegetable widely consumed all over the world. It is a crucial ingredient in many culinary dishes and a significant source of income for farmers across various countries. Unfortunately, the cultivation of this crop is not without its challenges, as it can be affected by pathogenic fungi, which can lead to a decrease in yield and quality. To identify the pathogen causing the disease, this study used combined methods, including analyzing morphological features, DNA sequences, and conducting a phylogenetic analysis of multiple genes. The infected samples were randomly harvested from the chilli fields in three provinces of Vietnam: Thua Thien Hue, Quang Binh, and Quang Tri. This study recovered a total of ten isolates from diseased chilli peppers, and based on the phylogenetic analysis of the combined dataset, these isolates were identified as six species, including Colletotrichum scovillei, C. siamense, C. fructicola, C. brevisporum, Fusarium sulawesiense, and Epicoccum latusicollum. These pathogens were found to be the causative agents of chilli disease. In addition to identifying the pathogen species responsible for chilli disease, this research provides valuable insights into the taxonomy, phylogenetic relationships, and diversity of fungal pathogens affecting chilli crops. These findings contribute to the development of effective management strategies to control these diseases and improve chilli production.

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Citation: Vu Quang Hoang Nguyen, Tram Thi Ngoc Tran, Lan Thuy Tran, Thuy Thi Thu Nguyen, Thanh Thi Thu Pham, Quang Tan Hoang, Thi Thi Diem Pham (2023) Identification of fungal species associated with chilli fruit disease in North-Central, Vietnam. Journal of Plant Pathology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s42161-023-01551-6