Research needed on oil palm diseases in Latin America

The recent appearance of wilt in Brazil brings the number of diseases likely to have an economic impact on oil palm plantations in Latin America to five, the others being: Marchitez, ringspot disease; bud rot and red ring disease. The occasional studies made of these diseases have made it possible to improve our knowledge of them to varying degrees. Although the pathogens and vectors of red ring disease and Marchitez are known, they have yet to be found for bud rot and ringspot disease. Control methods are currently limited to the eradication of diseased trees and empirical treatment with highly remanent insecticides having long residual effect. Research should be intensified in the following areas: test a range of hybrid planting material intra- or inter specific) with a view to identifying genetic characters of resistance; determine the biology of the Marachitez vector (Lincus); define methods of controlling known vectors (insecticides, pheromones, biological control); identify bud rot and ringspot disease pathogens and vectors. Genetic research should be given priority because, although it proves effective, it takes a long time to obtain results. (Résumé d'auteur