Panama Disease May Destroy Banana Plant Here are Tips

Banana is a fruit that is beloved worldwide, and its cultivation is quite extensive in the country. Farmers can earn good profits from banana cultivation. However, two essential factors are crucial for this preventing diseases in banana plants and ensuring fair prices for farmers. In this regard, farmers make every possible effort to protect banana plants from diseases, including the notorious Panama disease. Let's delve into the details.

Highly Dangerous Disease for Bananas:

According to agricultural scientists, the threat of Tropical Race-4 (TR-4) fungus looms over 99% of global banana crops. This disease has spread to more than 20 countries worldwide. The concern lies in the fact that the fungus infects the plant before any symptoms become visible. In this disease, banana leaves turn excessively yellow compared to their usual green color, and the edges turn black. The plant wilts, leading to complete devastation of the crop, resulting in substantial financial losses for farmers.

Symptoms of the Disease:

Banana plants affected by the Panama disease experience stunted growth. The leaves of the plant turn brown and fall off, and the stem also starts wilting. This is considered a highly destructive disease that can ruin the entire banana crop. Fusarium, the fungus causing this disease, can survive in the soil for 30-40 years.

Global Spread of the Disease:

The disease was first identified in the 1950s, and it is considered one of the worst plant pandemics. During the last decade, this pandemic has rapidly increased its spread. It has expanded from Asia to Australia, the Middle East, Africa, and presently to Latin America. Farmers worldwide are distressed due to this disease.

Success for Scientists: Scientists in Australia have successfully developed genetically modified 'Cavendish Banana' resistant to the TR-4 fungus. Additionally, Indian Agricultural Research Institute scientists in Lucknow have developed a bio-fungicide named Phuzeekont, which is effective in controlling this fungus.

The Panama disease poses a significant threat to banana cultivation worldwide, and scientists' success in developing resistant varieties and control measures brings hope to farmers facing this agricultural challenge.