Diseases of Cashew Nut Plants (Anacardium Occidentale L.) in Burkina Faso

Abstract

Cashew's (Anacardium occidentale L.) production in Burkina Faso suffers from several biotic constraints. The aim of this study was to inventory the diseases associated with the tree. Cashew orchards were prospected in the production belt of Burkina Faso including Hauts Bassins, Cascades, SouthWestern and, Center-Western regions. Four major diseases were observed including anthracnose (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides), Pestalotia leaf spot (Pestalotia heterocornis), bacterial leaf and nut spot (Xanthomonas citri pv. anacardii), and gummosis (Lasiodiplodia theobromae). The incidence of the diseases varied according to the locations; in addition, anthracnose was the most spread disease with high incidence. Gummosis was observed in all the locations and was the second threat to cashew production in SouthWest and West Center regions. The bacterial disease which affects all parts of the cashew tree was mainly observed in the Hauts Bassins region. No virus was detected during this survey. Altogether, the results of this study represent an important baseline data for the design and implementation of strategies for cashew protection in Burkina Faso.