Cross‐Pathogenicity of <i>Colletotrichum</i> spp. Isolated From Chilli Fruits

ABSTRACT In Malaysia, four species of Colletotrichum , namely C. fioriniae , C. scovillei , C. fructicola and C. truncatum , have been identified as the causal pathogens of chilli anthracnose. In this study, we assessed the potential of cross infection of C. fioriniae , C. scovillei , C. fructicola and C. truncatum on banana, mango and tomato fruits. The most virulent species seems to be isolates of C. fioriniae , and tomato was the most susceptible host. The results of the pathogenicity test showed the risk of cross‐infection of the four species of Colletotrichum from chilli fruits with bananas, mangoes and tomatoes. The presence of wounds on fruits enhances the pathogenic potential of Colletotrichum . Identifying the host range of Colletotrichum spp. is essential for developing disease management strategies and efficient quarantine protocols.