Identification and pathogenicity of Fusarium spp. associated with durian wilt disease in Malaysia

Aims: Durian (Durio zibethinus) is an important crop widely grown in tropical regions, with significant economic value.However, the fruit quality is compromised by devastating fungal diseases caused by Fusarium spp.This study aimed to isolate and identify Fusarium species involved in causing durian wilt disease, as well as to determine the pathogenicity level. Methodology and results:To understand the identity and virulence of isolates, morphological characterisation coupled with DNA sequence homology analysis based on internal transcribed spacer (ITS) genes and pathogenicity assay were conducted.Two Fusarium species were identified as Fusarium oxysporum and Fusarium solani.The pathogenicity of Fusarium isolates were performed on young healthy durian plants and proved as causal agent of wilt disease.A significant reduction in plant growth, wilting and xylem discoloration were noticeable after one week of inoculation.Conclusion, significance and impact of study: Occurrence of Fusarium spp.needs to be prioritised as the disease could affect the yield and quality of Malaysian durian.Although Fusarium spp.has been previously reported to occur, this report represents the first occurrence of Fusarium-consortium isolated from an infected durian tree in Malaysia that can be used for future fungicide development in disease management intervention strategies with wider genotypes.