Cadang-cadang

CCCVd.pdf

Cadang-cadang is a plant disease caused by a viroid that affects coconut palms and other species of palms. The disease is particularly devastating in the Philippines, where it has led to significant economic losses in the coconut industry.

Etymology

The term "cadang-cadang" is derived from the Bicolano word "kadang," which means "dying" or "withering." This reflects the symptoms observed in affected palms.

Pathogen

Cadang-cadang is caused by the Coconut cadang-cadang viroid (CCCVd), a small, circular RNA molecule. Viroids are the smallest known agents of infectious disease and lack the protein coat found in viruses.

Symptoms

The symptoms of cadang-cadang include:

• Yellowing of older fronds
• Premature nutfall
• Stunting of the palm
• Gradual decline in nut production
• Death of the palm within a few years

Transmission

The viroid is primarily transmitted through infected planting material and possibly by certain insect vectors. The exact mode of natural transmission remains unclear.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cadang-cadang is typically done through molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect the presence of CCCVd in plant tissues.

Management

There is currently no cure for cadang-cadang. Management strategies focus on:

• Use of disease-free planting material
• Regular monitoring of palms for early detection
• Removal and destruction of infected palms to prevent spread

Economic Impact

Cadang-cadang has had a significant economic impact on the coconut industry in the Philippines. The disease has led to the loss of millions of coconut palms, affecting the livelihoods of many farmers.

Research

Ongoing research aims to better understand the viroid and develop effective management strategies. Efforts are also being made to breed resistant varieties of coconut palms.

See also

• Viroid
• Coconut
• Plant pathology
• Philippines