List of mango diseases

List of Mango Diseases

Mango (Mangifera indica) is a popular tropical fruit beloved around the world. However, like all crops, it is susceptible to a variety of diseases that can affect its growth, yield, and quality. This article provides a comprehensive list of diseases that affect mango trees, including fungal, bacterial, viral, and physiological disorders. Understanding these diseases is crucial for effective management and prevention strategies.

Fungal Diseases

Anthracnose (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides)

One of the most common and destructive diseases in mango. It affects almost all parts of the mango tree, causing black, sunken lesions on leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits. It is particularly severe in areas with high humidity and rainfall.

Powdery Mildew (Oidium mangiferae)

Characterized by the appearance of white, powdery spots on leaves, flowers, and young fruits. It can lead to flower drop and reduced fruit set if not controlled.

Dieback (Botryodiplodia theobromae)

This disease causes the drying and dying back of young shoots, followed by blackening and cracking of the bark. It can eventually lead to the death of branches.

Stem End Rot (Lasiodiplodia theobromae)

Occurs mainly on mature fruits, causing a dark rot at the stem end. It is often associated with fruit that has been injured or improperly handled.

Verticillium Wilt

A soil-borne fungal disease that leads to the wilting and death of mango trees. It is less common but can be devastating when it occurs.

Bacterial Diseases

Bacterial Black Spot (Xanthomonas campestris pv. mangiferaeindicae)

Manifests as black, water-soaked lesions on leaves, stems, and fruits. It can cause significant yield losses in affected orchards.

Viral Diseases

Mango Malformation Disease (Fusarium mangiferae)

Though primarily thought to be caused by a fungus, recent studies suggest a complex interaction with viruses. It causes abnormal growth of floral and vegetative parts, severely affecting fruit production.

Physiological Disorders

Spongy Tissue

A disorder that causes the internal flesh of the mango fruit to become spongy and inedible. It is not caused by pathogens but rather environmental factors and genetic predisposition.

Internal Necrosis

Another non-pathogenic disorder, characterized by the development of black necrotic areas inside the fruit. The exact cause is unknown but is thought to be related to nutrient imbalances.

Prevention and Management

Effective management of mango diseases involves a combination of cultural, biological, and chemical methods. Regular monitoring, proper sanitation, balanced fertilization, and irrigation practices can significantly reduce the incidence of diseases. In some cases, the use of fungicides and bactericides may be necessary, but should always be applied according to integrated pest management (IPM) principles to minimize environmental impact and the development of resistance.