Coffee leaf rust

Coffee leaf rust (Hemileia vastatrix) is a fungal disease that primarily affects coffee plants. It is considered one of the most economically significant coffee diseases, causing substantial damage to coffee crops worldwide.

History

Coffee leaf rust was first reported in East Africa in the 1860s and has since spread to almost all coffee-growing regions globally. The disease was first identified in Sri Lanka in 1869, where it destroyed the country's entire coffee industry within 20 years.

Symptoms and Effects

The primary symptom of coffee leaf rust is the appearance of yellow-orange rust-like spots on the underside of the coffee plant's leaves. As the disease progresses, the spots darken and become more pronounced, eventually causing the leaves to fall off the plant. This defoliation can lead to a significant reduction in the plant's yield and, in severe cases, can kill the plant.

Management and Control

Management of coffee leaf rust involves a combination of cultural practices, chemical control, and the use of resistant varieties. Cultural practices include proper spacing of plants to improve air circulation and the removal and destruction of infected leaves. Chemical control typically involves the application of fungicides. Breeding for resistance is an important long-term strategy, but it is complicated by the fungus's ability to overcome resistance.

Economic Impact

The economic impact of coffee leaf rust is significant. It can cause yield losses of up to 80%, leading to substantial income losses for coffee farmers. The disease also has indirect effects on the economy, as it can lead to job losses in regions heavily dependent on coffee production.

See Also

• Coffee production
• Plant pathology
• Fungicide