Fusarium wilt of brinjal: impact, pathogenicity, and sustainable management strategies

Brinjal ( Solanum melongena L.) is an economically significant vegetable crop cultivated worldwide. However, its productivity is severely affected by various soil-borne pathogens, among which Fusarium oxysporum and Fusarium solani is a major causal agent of wilt disease. This review comprehensively discusses the etiology, epidemiology, symptomatology, and pathogenicity of F. oxysporum and F. solani , along with its impact on brinjal production. The pathogen invades the vascular system, leading to wilting, yellowing, and eventual plant death, resulting in significant yield losses. Various environmental factors, such as soil moisture, temperature, and host susceptibility, influence disease progression. Additionally, this paper explores current management strategies, including cultural practices, biological control, resistant cultivars, and chemical treatments, to mitigate the disease. Advances in molecular techniques for pathogen identification and resistance breeding are also highlighted. A better understanding of the host–pathogen interactions and integrated disease management approaches can aid in developing sustainable solutions to combat F. solani induced wilt in brinjal while also promoting environmentally friendly management practices to support global food security.