Strengthening capacities for the prevention and management of Fusarium wilt in Latin America and the Caribbean

Musaceae (plantain and banana) are considered one of the most popular fruits in the world and are among the top ten food products. Bananas are an export item of great importance for Latin America and the Caribbean and, therefore, a fundamental pillar of the economy. The cultivation of plantain is also the basis of the daily diet of the population and the generation and diversification of income. About 85% of producers are small and their production is destined for local trade.

Fusarium wilt, caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc TR4), is one of the most devastating musaceae diseases. Annual economic losses from Foc TR4 have been estimated at USD 121 million in Indonesia, USD 253 million in Taiwan, and USD 14 million in Malaysia. To date, there is no effective control for Foc TR4, so research and development of technologies to control the pathogen and prevent dispersal inside and outside of plots and farms is essential. This project aims to strengthen capacities for the prevention and management of Fusarium wilt in Latin America and the Caribbean, through: 1) standardization of diagnostic methods, 2) evaluation of biosafety and soil management practices with emphasis on biological control, 3) evaluation of new varieties for their resistance to Foc TR4, and 4) transfer of knowledge and technologies generated to farmers.

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