Management of black pod rot in cacao (Theobroma cacao L.): a review

Introduction. Theobroma cacao L. is economically speaking the most important species of the genus Theobroma. Cacao is cultured in tropical regions and its yield is affected by several diseases, such as black pod. Black pod rot in cacao. Cacao black pod, particularly, is an economically serious problem in all areas of the world where cacao is grown, causing significant pod losses of up to 30% and killing up to 10% of the trees annually. The disease is caused by different species of the stramenopile genus Phytophthora and, once it has infected a cacao field, its control is fairly difficult. Black pod rot control strategies. Several approaches are used to manage black pod: chemical control, phytosanitary and cultural methods, genetic resistance, and biological control. Losses in yield due to black pod could be reduced through integrated management practices, although the results may vary for each cacao-growing region. Main challenges and new approaches. Black pod control could be achieved if an integrated management strategy is established, with the combination of biological and chemical methods, genetic control, and adequate cultural methods in an integrated program.