Journal of Environmental Biology

Distribution and molecular characterization of Lasiodiplodia theobromae and Aceria guerreronis associated with coconut

A. Sudha¹*, P.S. Kavitha², M. Rajesh¹, G. Preetha³ and S. Kavitha⁴      

¹Department of Plant Pathology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore-641 003, India

²Department of Fruit Science, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore-641 003, India 

³Department of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore-641 003, India

⁴Department of Seed Science and Technology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore-641 003, India

Received: 22 May 2024                   Revised: 26 July 2024                   Accepted: 06 January 2025

*Corresponding Author Email : sudha.a@tnau.ac.in                    *ORCiD: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8375-477X

Abstract

Aim: A survey was conducted in major coconut-growing areas of Tamil Nadu in order to determine the presence of a fungus Aceria guerreronis, and a mite Lasiodiplodia theobromae and their interactive effects. The objective of the study was to ascertain the interaction, pathogenicity and cross infectivity reaction to infection.

Methodology: Pathogenicity studies demonstrated the intensity of pest incidence, both individually and in combination, through morphological and molecular studies. Interestingly, interactions in a few crops were confirmed through PCR amplification.

Results: The survey revealed a significant positive correlation between mite and fungus infestations and GPS location (χ^² = 2114.22, df = 1; P < 0.001). Molecular studies identified product sizes of 347 bp for Lasiodiplodia theobromae KKLT01 and 500 bp for Aceria guerreronis KKAG01. Cross-infectivity tests demonstrated that toddy palm and arecanut experienced the same effects as coconut, which was confirmed through PCR amplification.

Interpretation: The present study shows that apart from mite infestation, the fungus also play a major role in increasing infestation and the interaction was positively correlated for cross infectivity. The results of the present study will help to restructure the existing management strategy.

Key words: Aceria guerreronis, Coconut, Infestation, Lasiodiplodia theobromae, Morpho-molecular variations

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