R.l. Patel

Wilt of Pigeonpea Caused by Fusarium Udum Butler: Disease of Economic Significance R.l. Patel

Pigeonpea, a fifth prominent pulse crop in the world, is a rich source of proteins, carbohydrates and certain minerals. The production of this crop is mainly confined to developing countries. It suffers from over 210 pathogens. Wilt of Pigeonpea caused by Fusarium udum Butler is an universal disease and major yield limiting factor responsible for irreversible losses to the crop. The disease appears in the early stage of the crop growth as gradual or sudden withering and drying. Fusarium udum is host specific and can survive in wilted plant stubble over long period. The aspects like pathogen variability, germplasm screening technique and screening of genetic materials for resistance are covered. Therefore, attempts have been made to provide research based information useful for the researchers and academicians alike.