State of Knowledge Regarding the Recent Outbreak of Coconut Root Disease (Wilt)
Prabakar, K. *
Department of Crop Protection, Vanavarayar Institute of Agriculture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India.
Durgadevi, D.
Department of Crop Protection, Vanavarayar Institute of Agriculture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India.
Vijaya Gowri, E.
Department of Crop Protection, Vanavarayar Institute of Agriculture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India.
Ranjith, S.
Department of Crop Protection, Vanavarayar Institute of Agriculture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India.
Sankararaman, H.
Department of Crop Protection, Vanavarayar Institute of Agriculture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India.
Kalaivannan, R.
Department of Crop Protection, Vanavarayar Institute of Agriculture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India.
Akilesh, S.
Department of Pathology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The Integrated Disease Management (IDM) approach consolidates these various strategies into a unified framework aimed at reducing disease burden while enhancing crop productivity. IDM promotes minimal reliance on chemical inputs and favours the adoption of biostimulants, neem-based formulations, and microbial inoculants. The paper aims to explore the Recent outbreak of coconut root (wilt) disease in Tamil Nadu. Serological detection methods for phytoplasma detection were initiated in 1980’s involving the production of polyclonal, monoclonal antibodies, followed by antisera and utilising them for ELISA and immunofluorescent assay. Plant diseases with yellowing, little leaf, white leaf, witches broom, stunting symptoms erroneously misidentified as viral menace were later classified as Mycoplasma-like organisms (MLOs) based on their morphology and ultrastructural similarity. A multiplex qPCR assay was developed for the detection of phytoplasma in sesame and Rubus sp. Hence, it would serve as a myriad, speed, simplicity and reproducibility. Thus, the new era of CRWD management is marked by eco-friendly innovation, biological synergy, and sustainable agricultural practices. Looking ahead, advanced tools such as RNA-based biopesticides and CRISPR-mediated genome editing offer promising avenues for long-term disease resistance.
Keywords: Integrated disease management, mycoplasma, biostimulants, plant diseases, coconut