History, dissemination, and field control strategies of cocoa witches’ broom

Abstract

Abstract The world demand for cocoa beans has increased, but the spread of fungal diseases of the cocoa tree ( Theobroma cacao ) has become an obstacle. Witches’ broom is one such disease, caused by Moniliophthora perniciosa , a pest that devastates cocoa production. Thus, this review aims to address the historical description and verify the spread and field control strategies of witches’ broom in cocoa trees. Studies reveal that in various countries the disease has led to crises in cocoa production. The history of the disease shows a long fungal parasite–plant relationship and the first scientific studies indicate the Amazon Rainforest as the epicentre. In the field, attempts to control witches’ broom involve different strategies, such as genetic control, culture management, and chemical and biological control, which together form integrated management, an approach with good disease control results and perspectives for increased production. Nevertheless, there are economic and technical difficulties to be overcome. Records of occurrence indicate that witches’ broom is restricted to Central and South America, distributed across 14 countries. However, it is necessary to adopt measures that prevent the disease from spreading to other parts of the world, which could trigger a global crisis in cocoa production.

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