February 08, 2025 | Crop Protection |
Researchers from Hainan University, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, and Ocean University of China conducted a study to identify the causal agent of a leaf spot disease observed in rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L.) plantations in Hainan Province, China. Rambutan is a tropical fruit tree of economic importance in southern China, and diseases caused by fungal pathogens can significantly reduce its yield and quality.
In September 2023, a severe anthracnose-like leaf spot disease was detected in a rambutan orchard in Baoting County, Hainan Province. The disease affected over 10% of the leaves, with notable impacts on tree growth. The research team conducted a comprehensive investigation, including morphological observations, pathogenicity tests, and multilocus phylogenetic analyses using sequences from five gene regions: ITS, GAPDH, TUB2, CAL, and ACT.
The pathogen was identified as Colletotrichum siamense, marking the first report of this species causing anthracnose on rambutan in China. This study expands knowledge of rambutan diseases in the region and highlights the need for continued monitoring and disease management strategies to mitigate potential impacts on rambutan production. Further research is recommended to understand the epidemiology and control of C. siamense in rambutan cultivation.
