Phytophthora: an underestimated threat to agriculture, forestry, and natural ecosystems in sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract Phytophthora species are highly destructive plant pathogens and pose a significant threat to plants in various ecosystems, including agriculture, forest plantations, and natural environments. In sub-Saharan Africa, a total of 77 Phytophthora species have been identified and this review aims to provide an overview of the species diversity and progress of Phytophthora research in this region. Numerous important studies have been carried out in this region, contributing significantly to our understanding of Phytophthora in various research fields. However, compared to global data, the advancement of Phytophthora research in sub-Saharan Africa has been relatively slow. This is evident from the fact that some countries in the region have yet to report the presence of Phytophthora species. Thus, this review also highlights critical research gaps, particularly concerning the potential impacts of climate change, and suggests specific studies to address these gaps. The identified research studies are of utmost urgency as they not only aim to safeguard the iconic floral biodiversity of the region but also play a crucial role in enhancing the economy and ensuring food security.