Morpho-Molecular and Management of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Wilt Caused by Ceratocystis fimbriata Ellis and Halst

Pomegranate wilt poses a significant threat to pomegranate production, holding considerable economic importance in the cultivated regions of pomegranates. The study investigated the wilt in pomegranate cultivation, revealing characteristic symptoms including yellowing and/or wilting of the leaves on a single branch usually in the upper crown and senescence. Brown discoloration was observed in the root, stem and branches of severely affected plants. The cross-sectioned root and stem portions of the wilted plants showed only the presence of brown discolorations in the vascular regions. The wilt incidence in Karnataka ranging from 1.14 to 62.06 Percent. PCR analysis and 18S rDNA region was sequenced, it has been confirmed C. fimbriata as the causal organism for pomegranate wilt and Phylogenetic analyses placed the pomegranate isolates among members of the LAC of the C. fimbriata complex; specifically, to populations that appear to be native to eastern and northern South America. Optimal growth of the pathogen was observed at 30 °C with pH 7.0 and best media for culturing C. fimbriata is Potato dextrose agar and Potato carrot agar, in vitro evaluation of fungicides showed propiconazole and mancozeb highest inhibiting mycelial growth. Trichoderma viride (Tv-3) and Bacillus subtilis emerged as the most effective bio-agent, while pongamia leaf extract exhibited maximum fungal growth inhibition. These can be used for the management of wilt disease.