Comprehensive review on pathogenesis, pathogenicity, detection, molecular profiling, epidemiology and management of Fusarium wilt of banana

Fusarium wilt of banana (FWB), caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cubense (Foc) is the most dreadful soilborne fungal disease affecting banana production worldwide. It is a highly specialized vascular-pathogen, infects almost all types of bananas both in tropical and sub-tropical regions and causes significant yield losses. This menace results in compromised food security and put the livelihoods of marginal farmers at risk extending its impact on global market. Diverse mode of dispersal and long-term survival of Foc in the soil has made it the most widely distributed pathogen and confers challenges in its management. Based on the disease reaction on differential hosts four races of the Foc has been recognized. Ever since the identification of the races, major strategic step had taken to develop resistant cultivars. However, due to high rate of mutation and rapid co-evolution of the pathogen with the host, Foc frequently surmount host defense. Early detections are crucial to prevent spread and management of FWB. This necessitates detailed study on biology, pathogenicity, dispersal, diversity and detection of Foc at molecular level. Weather variables act as predisposing factors for dessemination of the pathogen that demands to devise a suitable disease predictive model for the judicial application of fungicides. This review would provide a comprehensive overview of FWB, highlighting the disease’s impact, pathogen and its races, race diversity, epidemiology, molecular detection of the pathogen, research advancements in patho-genetics, host–pathogen interactions as well as modern management strategies that encourage sustainability in management practices.