Agronomic characterization and resistance of banana genotypes to Colletotrichum musae

Abstract

Banana is the most consumed fruit in the world as it is a delicious and aromatic fruit. However, its production is limited mainly due post-harvest problems such as diseases, especially anthracnose, which accelerates senescence and causes early fall. The aim of this work was to evaluate the agronomic traits and the resistance of banana genotypes (Fhia 18, Fhia 01, Thap Mae, Caipira, Prata (control) and Maçã (control)) to the fungus Colletotrichum musae. The weight of bunch (Wb), fruit length (Fl), fruit diameter (Fd), the number of fruits per bunch (Nfc), number of hands per bunch (Nhb), yield (Yd), pH, total sugars (Brix) and finger detachment were evaluated. The AUDPC (area under the disease progress curve) showed that the genotypes Fhia 01, Maçã and Prata (15.77, 15.55 and 11.60 respectively) are more susceptible to the fungus C. musae than Caipira, Fhia 18 and Thap maeo (6.66, 7.29 and 8.76 respectively). The experiment with Fhias 18 and Thap Maeo genotypes showed lower finger detachment of 18 and 15%, and Thap maeo, Fhia18 and Caipira were resistant to C musae and presented the best agronomic characteristics.