Knowledge review and isolation of fungi associated with necrotic leaf spot in vanilla spp.

Date of Publication

4-2025

Document Type

Bachelor's Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Biology major in Medical Biology

Subject Categories

Biology

College

College of Science

Department/Unit

Biology

Thesis Advisor

Mark Angelo O. Balendres

Defense Panel Chair

Mark Christian Felipe R. Redillas

Defense Panel Member

Dennis A. Dolojan
Frances C. Recuenco

Abstract/Summary

Vanilla (Vanilla planifolia), a high-value crop in the global spice trade, is particularly susceptible to foliar diseases, especially those that are caused by fungi. Most of these fungi are from the Fusarium species and Colletotrichum species. These fungi pose a threat to vanilla production and cause significant financial losses. This study combines a narrative review of the knowledge on fungal diseases in Vanilla species and an experiment to identify the fungus associated with a leaf disease of Vanilla sp. grown in Calauan, Laguna, Philippines. The study utilized a narrative review of prior studies about Vanilla spp., which revealed that Vanilla plants, particularly V. planifolia, are highly susceptible to foliar diseases caused mainly by fungal pathogens such as F. oxysporum, F. solani, and Colletotrichum spp., resulting in significant crop losses and production challenges across major growing regions. Climate change and environmental stress have further intensified disease outbreaks in tropical countries like Mexico and Indonesia, contributing to reduced yields, increased fruit abortion, and market volatility. In response, extensive global research led by countries such as the United States and India, with key contributions in molecular diagnostics, pathogen detection, and disease management, continues to drive sustainable solutions, including biocontrol agents like Trichoderma spp., Pseudomonas spp., and Bacillus subtilis, alongside improved cultural practices. Necrotic leaf spots, characterized by brown and black lesions, were observed in leaf samples collected from Calauan, Laguna, Philippines. Fungal isolates from the necrotic leaf spots were identified based on cultural and morphological characteristics. All samples from black spots were bacterial, while those from brown lesions included 13 bacterial and 12 fungal isolates. Pathogenicity testing confirmed that Fusarium sp. in isolate VAN-008 and Colletotrichum sp. in isolate VAN-011 are the primary causes of vanilla foliar disease in Calauan, Laguna, Philippines. This study emphasizes combining molecular diagnostics, sustainable biocontrol strategies, and ongoing monitoring to improve vanilla cultivation. Future studies should concentrate on broadening pathogen profiling over various geographic locations, improving diagnostic methods, and creating efficient, region-specific disease mitigation plans to secure the long-term viability of vanilla production.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Vanilla; Fungal diseases of plants

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Embargo Period

4-14-2025

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