Integrated Insights into Papaya Damping-Off Caused by Fusarium oxysporum: Prevalence and In-Vitro Management Strategies in Sindh Province
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is an economically important fruit crop cultivated widely in tropical and subtropical regions. In Sindh Province, Pakistan, papaya production is increasingly constrained by damping-off disease, primarily caused by Fusarium oxysporum. The pathogen infects germinating seeds and seedlings, leading to poor germination, plant collapse, and heavy stand losses in nurseries. Its ability to survive in soil and crop residues as chlamydospores makes control difficult, while favorable nursery conditions such as high moisture and poor sanitation further intensify disease severity. This review highlights the prevalence of damping-off in papaya nurseries of Sindh Province and evaluates in-vitro management strategies. Fungicides such as Carbendazim, Difenoconazole, and Nativo have been reported to significantly inhibit F. oxysporum, but long-term use raises concerns about fungicide resistance, environmental hazards, and input costs. Alternatively, botanical extracts (e.g., neem, eucalyptus, clove) and biocontrol agents including Trichoderma harzianum, Bacillus subtilis, and Pseudomonas fluorescens have shown promising antifungal activity, offering safer and sustainable management options. An integrated approach combining cultural practices, judicious fungicide use, botanical extracts, and biological control is recommended for effective management of damping-off in papaya nurseries. Strengthening research on pathogen variability, disease epidemiology, and large-scale validation of eco-friendly treatments under Sindh’s agro-ecological conditions will be vital for reducing losses and sustaining papaya production.
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4414361550