The intensity of coffee berry disease (Colletotrichum kahawae Waller and Bridge) and its association with biophysical factors in Southern Ethiopia

Abstract

Coffee berry disease (CBD) (caused by Colletotrichum kahawae Waller and Bridge), is the major limiting factor in coffee production and is markedly increasing, particularly in southern Ethiopia. Therefore, the current work was conducted with the objectives of (1) assessing the current status of the disease and (2) identifying major biophysical factors associated with disease intensity. Field surveys were conducted to perform disease assessments and identify major biophysical factors associated with CBD intensity across six districts from mid-July to August 2021 cropping season. The mean CBD incidence and severity ranged from 24.7 to 74.8%, and 15.7 to 53.4%, respectively. Independent variables such as districts, altitudes, and cultivar types were the most important variables that were significantly associated with the intensity of CBD in the study areas. Future research work should focus on conducting comprehensive epidemiological surveys, and the distribution of released and developing new CBD-resistant varieties to their specific agroecologies.