A DESTRUCTIVE DISEASE OF LENTIL: FUSARIUM WILT OF LENTIL

Abstract

Lentil is a significant dietary source of protein and other essential nutrients in many regions of the world. Among several diseases, Fusarium wilt is the most significant disease. This review covers achievements in the control of Fusarium wilt, the diversity of pathogen and the gap in the control of Fusarium wilt to improve the productivity and production of the crop. Fusarium wilt of lentil caused by the Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lentis (Fol) is one of the destructive diseases in all lentil growing regions of the world. Under favorable conditions, it caused substantial yield losses on susceptible varieties. The reasons for the low yield of lentils are numerous diseases and pests, poor agricultural practices, lack of good varieties and plant protection technology. The disease develops in patches as common with soil-borne diseases. Symptoms of the disease appeared at both adult and seedling stages in the field. From flowering to the late pod-filling stage, wilt symptoms may be characterized by sudden drooping of the top leaflets. Dark green foliage turns to dull green and then turns yellow, later whole plant or branches appeared wilted. Fol frequently isolated from the affected plants. The best way to control the Fusarium wilt of lentil is by growing resistant varieties, chemical control and biological control. In the absence of any control measures, Fol is capable of causing a drastic reduction in plant growth and yield parameters. Fusarium wilt of lentil is possessed high destructive potential. Therefore, regular disease monitoring should be carried out, a more comprehensive varietal screening program should be conducted to find out more appropriate resistant sources and in the place of disease hot spots, effective fungicides should be used to minimize the losses caused by Fusarium wilt.