Epidemiological survey and mycological characterization of fungal diseases in mango orchards at Jaya agricultural college, Vyasarpuram

Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cultivation in tropical regions like Vyasarpuram, Tamil Nadu, is significantly impacted by fungal diseases, which reduce yield and fruit quality. This study conducted a field survey of two mango orchards near Jaya Agricultural College to assess the incidence of major fungal diseases, including anthracnose, powdery mildew, sooty mold, dieback, black tip, stem end rot, and fusarium wilt. Colletotrichum gloeosporioides-induced anthracnose was found to be the most prevalent disease, with a disease incidence of over 46%. Isolation and morphological identification of pathogens were performed, except for Oidium mangiferae, which was identified microscopically. In vitro evaluation using the poisoned food technique revealed propiconazole as the most effective fungicide against C. gloeosporioides, followed by carbendazim and mancozeb. The biocontrol agent Trichoderma viride demonstrated strong antagonistic activity, particularly against anthracnose and dieback pathogens, indicating its potential in integrated disease management. The findings underscore the importance of combining eco-friendly biological control with chemical fungicides to sustainably manage fungal diseases in mango orchards and improve productivity.