Phomopsis blight of eggplant ( Solanum melongena L.): a critical review of Diaporthe vexans taxonomy, biology, epidemiology, host specialisation, and disease management

Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) faces severe Phomopsis blight and fruit rot from seed-borne Diaporthe vexans, producing global yield losses. This review synthesises more than 100 years of research on its taxonomy, biology, host range, prevalence, epidemiology and management, reappraising historical host reports and taxonomic ambiguities with contemporary molecular evidence. Current data indicate D. vexans is host-specialised to eggplant, as most non-Solanum records lack molecular confirmation. While triazoles and carbendazim remain effective, documented benzimidazole resistance and concerns over resistance development and environmental safety call for reduced dependence on chemical control. Sustainable alternatives, including resistant germplasm, biocontrol agents plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria and defense inducers, show promise, but limited field validation restricts adoption. Integrated disease management (IDM) remains essential for long-term suppression of Phomopsis blight.