Lasiodiplodia theobromae associada a manchas foliares e podridão dos frutos em achachairu (Garcinia humilis)

Abstract

Achachairu (Garcinia humilis) is an exotic tropical fruit native to Bolivia that has recently gained commercial popularity in Brazil. However, its productivity can be reduced by phytosanitary problems. In this context, the present study aimed to identify the etiological agent associated with leaf spot and fruit rot symptoms observed in achachairu plants. Samples of symptomatic leaves and fruits were collected from a commercial production area in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil, in 2024. Fungal isolates belonging to the genus Lasiodiplodia were obtained from symptomatic tissues. The characterization of the isolates included morphological, cultural, and molecular analyses through amplification and sequencing of the ITS, tef1-α, and tub2 regions, followed by phylogenetic analysis. Pathogenicity tests were conducted on detached achachairu leaves and fruits. The results demonstrated that the isolates presented characteristics compatible with Lasiodiplodia theobromae, which was confirmed by phylogenetic analyses. In the pathogenicity tests, all isolates were able to reproduce the symptoms observed in the field, although differences in aggressiveness were observed, with one isolate standing out as more virulent. Fulfillment of Koch’s postulates confirmed the causal relationship between the fungus and the diseases. This report describes two new diseases in achachairu caused by L. theobromae. The study expands current knowledge of the achachairu pathosystem and provides a basis for future research on disease management.