Author
|
Submitted to: Complete Book
Publication Type: Book / Chapter Publication Acceptance Date: 1/15/2016 Publication Date: 2/22/2016 Citation: Bailey, B.A., Meinhardt, L.W. 2016. Cacao diseases: A history of old enemies and new encounters. Switzerland: Springer. 633 pages. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: This book reviews the current knowledge of cacao pathogens and their management methods. Topics discussed include the history, biology, and genetic diversity of Moniliophthora (causing witches’ broom and frosty pod rot) and Phytophthora species (causing black pod rot) that cause diseases resulting in major losses to cacao production. Emerging pathogens such as Cacao swollen shoot virus and Ceratobasidium theobromae (causing vascular streak dieback) are also discussed in detail along with many pathogens of significant local concern. Most of these pathogens represent major risks to global cacao production should they escape into new areas from their current limited distributions. By considering cacao diseases as a group, similarities in the available tools/ techniques used in their management become obvious as do their limitations. Gaps in our current knowledge of cacao pathogens and the management of the diseases they cause are detailed and direction is given to future research needs if their management is to be improved. This insight allows readers to consider cacao disease threats from a more complete global perspective and should allow improved synergy of effort between the various research programs, agencies, and industries, both private and public, with vested interests in cacao production, and cacao farmers. |
