Opinion Article, J Plant Physiol Pathol Vol: 12 Issue: 5

Advances in the Management of Moko Disease in Tropical Crops

Kaleh Singh^*

¹Department of Botany, Department of Agriculture, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

*Corresponding Author: Kaleh Singh,
Department of Botany, Department of Agriculture, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
E-mail: kaleh.singh@um.edu.my

Received date: 13 August, 2024, Manuscript No. JPPP-24-146791;

Editor assigned date: 16 August, 2024, Pre QC No. JPPP-24-146791 (PQ);

Reviewed date: 30 August, 2024, QC No. JPPP-24-146791;

Revised date: 06 September, 2024, Manuscript No. JPPP-24-146791 (R);

Published date: 13 September, 2024, DOI: 10.4172/2329-955X.1000364

Citation: Ogunka-Nnoka CU, Ben-Piakor TE, Mepba HD, Ifeanacho MO (2020) Effect of Processing on Phytochemicals and Nutrient Composition of Tiger Nut (Cyperus esculentus L). J Food Nutr Disor 9:2. doi: 10.37532/jfnd.2020.9(2).271

Description

Moko disease, caused by the bacterium Ralstonia solanacearum race 2, is a devastating bacterial wilt affecting a wide range of tropical crops, particularly bananas and plantains. The disease, which can lead to significant yield losses, has been a major concern for farmers in tropical regions due to its rapid spread and difficulty in management. In recent years, advances in understanding the pathogen's biology, improvements in disease detection and the development of integrated management strategies have provided new tools for combating moko disease.

Ralstonia solanacearum is a highly diverse species complex, with different races and biovars adapted to various hosts and environmental conditions. Advances in molecular biology have enabled researchers to study the genetic diversity of the pathogen, leading to the identification of specific strains responsible for moko disease. This knowledge has been instrumental in developing targeted management strategies and breeding programs aimed at resistance to specific strains. Traditional methods for diagnosing moko disease, such as visual inspection of symptoms and culture-based techniques, can be time-consuming and may not detect the pathogen in asymptomatic plants. Advances in molecular diagnostics, including Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) assays, have revolutionized the detection of Ralstonia solanacearum.

These techniques are highly sensitive and specific, allowing for the rapid and accurate identification of the pathogen, even in the early stages of infection. The use of portable diagnostic kits based on these technologies has enabled on-site testing, facilitating quicker decisionmaking in disease management. Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have been increasingly used to monitor the spread of moko disease in large agricultural areas. Satellite imagery and drones equipped with multispectral cameras can detect changes in crop health that may indicate the presence of moko disease, often before visible symptoms appear. GIS tools help in mapping disease outbreaks and predicting potential spread, allowing for more targeted and timely interventions. Crop rotation and fallowing with non-host plants is one of the most effective cultural practices for managing moko disease. By rotating bananas or other susceptible crops with plants that are not hosts of Ralstonia solanacearum, the pathogen's population in the soil can be reduced over time.

Fallowing or leaving the land uncultivated for a period, also helps to decrease pathogen levels, although the effectiveness of this practice depends on the duration and environmental conditions. Sanitation is acute in preventing the introduction and spread of moko disease. This includes using disease-free planting material, disinfecting tools and equipment and removing and destroying infected plants. Quarantine measures, such as restricting the movement of potentially contaminated soil, water and plant material, are also essential, particularly in regions where the disease is not yet established. Proper water management is essential in areas affected by moko disease, as the pathogen can spread through contaminated water.

Using clean, pathogen-free water sources for irrigation and avoiding waterlogging through proper drainage systems can help minimize the risk of disease spread. In some cases, shifting from surface irrigation to drip irrigation systems has been recommended to reduce the chances of pathogen dissemination. Several beneficial microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes, have been identified as potential biological control agents against Ralstonia solanacearum. These organisms can suppress the pathogen through various mechanisms, such as competition for nutrients, production of antimicrobial compounds, or inducing systemic resistance in the host plant. For example, certain strains of Pseudomonas and Bacillus have shown effectiveness in reducing moko disease severity in field trials.

The management of moko disease in tropical crops has advanced significantly in recent years, driven by a better understanding of the pathogen's biology, the development of rapid diagnostic tools and the implementation of integrated management strategies. Advances in biological control, the breeding of resistant varieties and the adoption of improved cultural practices offer hope for sustainable disease management. However, the success of these approaches depends on their integration into comprehensive disease management programs that are tailored to local conditions and supported by ongoing research and farmer education. As moko disease continues to threaten tropical agriculture, these advances provide a pathway towards more flexible and productive cropping systems.