Basal stem rot (BSR), caused by Ganoderma spp., is a significant disease that threatens the oil palm industry globally, leading to considerable economic losses in affected plantations. Oil palm production in Tanzania, is predominantly undertaken by smallholder farmers, with plantations consisting of palm trees aged over 25 years. Despite the importance of oil palm in the country’s agricultural economy, there is limited research on BSR’s prevalence and impact. This study assessed the incidence and severity of BSR in key oil palm producing regions of Tanzania and evaluated the influence of environmental factors on disease development. A field survey covering 12,556 hectares of oil palm plantations was conducted. A stratified random sampling design used to select 387.65 hectares for detailed assessment from Kigoma, Uvinza, Mkuranga and Kyela districts. Results revealed that BSR incidence and severity were lowest in Mkuranga District (6.4% and 9%, respectively) compared to Kigoma, Uvinza, and Kyela districts. Additionally, a positive correlation was found between the age of palm trees and the incidence of BSR, with older trees exhibiting higher disease rates. Loamy soils were associated with higher BSR incidence and severity (59.6% and 38.6%, respectively) compared to sandy loam soils. These findings highlight the critical need for tailored disease management strategies, particularly in older plantations and areas with loamy soils in the country. Also, study recommends further research into integrated disease management approaches and early detection practices for ensuring the long-term sustainability and productivity of the sector.
Mabula et al. (Tue,) studied this question.