Understanding Coffee Berry Disease: Characterization and Virulence of Colletotrichum kahawae in Western Ethiopia

Introduction Coffee (Coffea arabica L.) is a major source of livelihood for millions across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Ethiopia, recognized as the birthplace of Arabica coffee, plays a significant role in global coffee production. However, coffee cultivation in Ethiopia faces multiple challenges, particularly from fungal pathogens such as Colletotrichum kahawae, which causes Coffee Berry Disease (CBD).

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This article summarizes a recent study on the characterization and virulence of C. kahawae isolates in Gidami, Western Ethiopia, shedding light on disease prevalence and potential control strategies.

Key Findings of the Study

• Prevalence and Severity:
  • The study assessed 45 farms across nine kebeles and found a high prevalence of CBD, with incidence ranging from 66% to 86% and severity indices between 16% and 50%.
  • Higher altitude regions exhibited more intense CBD infections, with significant correlations between elevation and disease intensity (r = 0.61 for incidence and r = 0.55 for severity).
• Pathogen Characterization:
  • Isolates of C. kahawae displayed diverse colony morphology, mycelial growth rates (2.2–4.3 mm/day), and sporulation capacities (186.1 to 572.3 spores/ml).
  • The pathogen was most aggressive in high-altitude coffee farms with a conducive climate for fungal growth.
• Virulence Determination:
  • Detached berry tests (DBT) confirmed all C. kahawae isolates were pathogenic, with infection rates varying from 34.8% to 88.7%.
  • A strong positive correlation was observed between pathogen aggressiveness and its sporulation capacity (r = 0.95).

Impact on Ethiopian Coffee Production CBD is one of the major threats to Ethiopian coffee yields, particularly in high-altitude regions where environmental conditions favor disease development. The presence of diverse and aggressive C. kahawae strains underscores the need for advanced control measures, including:

• The selection and breeding of resistant coffee varieties.
• Implementation of improved agronomic practices such as proper shading and disease monitoring.
• The use of biological control agents to suppress fungal spread.

Reference to External Research The International Coffee Organization (ICO) highlights the economic impact of coffee diseases on smallholder farmers. Proactive management strategies, as recommended by ICO, could significantly reduce yield losses caused by CBD.

Further Reading & DOI Link For a comprehensive analysis, read the full study at https://doi.org/10.29328/journal.jpsp.1001054.

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