Some pathological studies on botryodiplodia theobromae pat. causing banana rot

B. theobromae Pat. was found to be pathogenic on banana (Musa paradisiaca L.) variety "Bhusaval". Its symptoms and morphology were studied. Inoculation tests were performed and the pathogenicity of the organism on its host was confirmed. It was also found that injury to the fruits enhanced the chances for infection. Percentage rot of banana fruits was found to be maximum at 25°C and 30°C and minimum at 7°C and below. An external supply of humidity always favoured the advancement of the disease on the fruits. Mode of germination of the spores was studied. Highest percentage germination of B. theobromae was obtained at 25°C. 1 % host extract solution also gave the maximum results. Cross inoculations revealed that the pathogen was capable of infecting other varieties of banana and fruits of other plants as well. The longevity of spores and their thermal-death point have been determined