Current Occurrence and Management Options for Bacterial Wilt Caused By Ralstonia Solanacearum in African Nightshade Kenya
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Date
2021
Authors
Njau, Njeri
Losenge, Turoop
Kiirika, Leonard
Maina, Mwangi
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Asian Journal of Management Sciences & Education
Abstract
Ralstonia solanacearum is responsible for bacterial wilt epidemics in a wide range of
cultivated crops including solanaceae, bananas, and geraniums among others. The
pathogen has the ability to thrive in wide temperature ranges enabling a wide
geographical distribution but tends to be aggressive in warm and humid regions.
Climatic conditions in Sub-saharan Africa are optimal for the pathogen
multiplication. R. solanacearum is capable of surviving for long periods in soil, crop
residues and irrigation water owing to its great metabolic adaptability. Indigenous
vegetables form an important component in people’s diets. African nightshades are
solanaceous crops and are among the most popular indigenous vegetables. Their
production is threatened by the devastating bacterial wilt pathogen R. solanacearum.
Nightshades are important in food security and are a rich source of vitamins,
micronutrients and roughage. Initially the vegetable was consumed by the rural poor
but its popularity has risen due to its multiple health benefits. They also possess
phytochemicals such as antioxidants, one of the body’s defense compound against
diseases. African nightshades are vital in curbing hidden hunger especially among
vulnerable communities. A survey was done in selected areas in Kenya to determine
the current status of the pathogen in African Nightshade farms. R. solanacearum
affecting African nightshades was confirmed in various parts Western, Central and
Rift valley regions. Several management options have been used including use of
chemicals as fumigants and amendments, solarization, biological control with the
aim of reducing the population. However, no single control method has been
completely successful. The aim of this paper is to give insights to the current status of
bacterial wilt and the current management options against bacterial wilt in African
Nightshades in Kenya.
Description
An Article Published in Asian Journal of Management Sciences & Education
Keywords
Ralstonia solanacearum, African Nightshade, Management