PATHOGENIC CHARACTERIZATION OF THREE FUSARIUM SPECIES ASSOCIATED WITH ONION (ALLIUM CEPA L.) IN BURKINA FASO

Abstract

Basal rot is a widespread onion disease caused by fungi belonging to Fusarium genus. The disease is known to incur onion yield loss worldwide. This study aims to identify and determine the pathogenicity of Fusarium species associated with basal rot of onions in Burkina Faso. Thirteen Fusarium isolates from seven regions of Burkina Faso were identified based on morphological observations and molecular diagnosis and their pathogenicity was assessed in laboratory and Greenhouse. Results showed that, the 13 isolates belonged to Fusarium falciforme, Fusarium acutatum and Fusarium oxysporum species. F. falciforme, F. acutatum and F. oxysporum were pathogenic on onion seeds, seedlings and bulbs. F. falciforme caused lower seedling damping-off rate compared to that caused by F. acutatum and F. oxysporum. All these species of Fusarium genus induced onion bulbs rots. The results of this study confirmed the presence of these species in Burkina Faso and that they are pathogenic on onion. Therefore, it would be useful to suggest an implement sustainable management approach of these pathogens.