Department of Plant Pathology, Southern Agricultural Research Institute, Areka Agricultural Research Center, Areka, Ethiopia
Research Article
Evaluation of Taro Genotypes against the Most Virulent Isolate of Phytophthora colocasiae in Wolaita and Kembata Tembaro Zones of Southern Ethiopia
Author(s): Zerhun Tomas*, Elfinesh Shikur and Alemar Said
Taro leaf blight disease, caused by Phytophthora colocasiae is a major limiting factor in Taro production worldwide.
Knowledge of resistance of Taro genotypes against the pathogen is very important for effective management of
Taro leaf blight disease. Taro leaf blight disease was surveyed in 27 Taro growing farmers’ fields of Wolaita and
Kembata Tembaro Zones of Southern Ethiopia during 2017. A total of 15 representative Phytophthora colocasiae isolates were isolated at Areka Pathology Laboratory. This isolates virulence test was carried out by using detached
leaf disc method. From the 15 P. colocasiae, isolate A, collected from Sodo Zuria produced extensive necrotic lesions
on the leaf and the pathogen was found to be most virulent when compared with the other fourteen isolates. Then
after most aggressive P. colocasiae isola.. View more»