Mango Tree Sudden Decline disease: 65-years global perspective of ecology, biology, epidemiology, and management - Challenge of tropical landscape pathology

Abstract

Mango Tree Sudden Decline (MTSD) disease has emerged as a severe threat, causing widespread devastation in mango orchards worldwide. The disease is characterized by rapid wilting, premature leaf yellowing and drop, branch dieback, darkening of vascular tissues, stunted growth, canker formation, and fruit abnormalities, leading to significant tree loss if not managed properly. This review comprehensively analyzes the global perspective of 65 years etiology, epidemiology, symptomatology, fungal disease cycle, survival strategies, dissemination patterns, and cultivar susceptibility associated with MTSD. The complex nature of MTSD is primarily attributed to fungal pathogens such as Ceratocystis fimbriata, Botryodiplodia theobromae (Pat.), Lasiodiplodia theobromae, Neofusicoccum mangiferae (Syd. & P. Syd), and Ceratocystis manginecans Key predisposing factors, including root damage from cultural practices, insect infestations, and improper irrigation, are discussed. The role of the insect vector Hypocryphalus mangiferae (Stebbing) in facilitating the transmission of C. manginecans spores from infected to healthy trees is also explored. The review explores the approaches concerning biological control, integrated management techniques, host resistance, and other emerging areas of research. Chemical management through fungicide application, particularly via macro-infusion techniques, has shown promising results while sustainable practices such as optimized irrigation and fertilization are crucial for its long-term control. This review underscores the importance of early detection and integrated management strategies to mitigate the impact of MTSD on global mango production.