CGIAR Initiative on Plant Health

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/117901

Part of the CGIAR Action Area on Resilient Agrifood Systems

Primary CGIAR impact area: Nutrition, health and food security

https://www.cgiar.org/initiative/13-plant-health-and-rapid-response-to-protect-food-and-livelihood-security/

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Now showing 1 - 20 of 425

Combating aflatoxin contamination by combining biocontrol application and adapted maize germplasm in northeastern and southeastern Mexico
(Journal Article, 2025-05) Muñoz-Zavala, Carlos; Molina Macedo, Aide; Toledo, Fernando H.; Telles Mejía, Eugenio; Cabrera-Soto, Luisa; Palacios-Rojas, Natalia
Maize is highly vulnerable to aflatoxin (AF) contamination caused by fungi from the Aspergillus section Flavi, with deficiencies in post-harvest management practices further exacerbating AF levels. Due to their carcinogenic properties, AFs pose significant health risks. Biological control using non-aflatoxigenic A. flavus isolates has been effective for over 25 years in the USA, with two formulations being commercially available. However, no such products have been developed yet for use in Mexico. This study evaluated the effectiveness of AF36-Prevail®, a non-aflatoxigenic strain from Arizona, for reducing aflatoxin contamination in Mexico. Over four years (2019–2022), we assessed its impact alongside regionally adapted maize germplasm in northeastern and southeastern Mexico. We analyzed a total of 1,479 grain samples, with 887 from biocontrol-treated fields, and 592 from untreated fields across 69 sites in Tamaulipas and Campeche. Treated fields showed 59.0 % to 89.9 % reductions in AF content compared to untreated fields, and higher ear rot was observed in untreated fields. Correlation coefficients between ear rot and AF content were r = 0.08 for Campeche and r = 0.36 for Tamaulipas. Significant differences (p ≤ 0.001) were noted between years and hybrids for both yields and AF levels. Three hybrids in Tamaulipas and four in Campeche demonstrated better adaptation, higher yields, and lower AF levels (< 20 ppb). This research underscores the potential for safer maize production in Mexico, particularly when combining biocontrol strain application with adapted germplasm.
Expert insight: combating Banana Bunchy Top Disease (BBTD) an interview with IITA's plant pathology
(Video, 2024-12-11) International Institute of Tropical Agriculture
From 3rd to 4th October 2024, 71 stakeholders, including 41 smallholder farmers from the districts of Bushenyi, Rubirizi, Bunyangabu and Kasese districts, staff from IITA, ASARECA, Plant Health Initiative, MAAIF, NARO, Extension Agents, and local policy makers gathered in Kasese district for a comprehensive 2-day learning experience about the emerging BBTD caused by the invasive Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV). Field demonstrations on disease identification, sanitation, and control measures, farmer-to-farmer sharing of experiences and successes, expert presentations on BBTD biology, symptoms, and management, and interactive sessions on integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, empowered farmers with the necessary knowledge and skills on BBTD symptoms and transmission, including how to recognize infected plants, the importance of early detection and removal of infected plants, disease prevention and management strategies and knowledge on clean planting materials. Farmers were also able to witness and appreciate the impact of BBTD through experience from farmers in Kasese.
Combating Banana Bunchy Top Disease (BBTD): healthy banana harvest
(Video, 2024-12-12) International Institute of Tropical Agriculture
From 3rd to 4th October 2024, 71 stakeholders, including 41 smallholder farmers from the districts of Bushenyi, Rubirizi, Bunyangabu and Kasese districts, staff from IITA, ASARECA, Plant Health Initiative, MAAIF, NARO, Extension Agents, and local policy makers gathered in Kasese district for a comprehensive 2-day learning experience about the emerging BBTD caused by the invasive Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV). Field demonstrations on disease identification, sanitation, and control measures, farmer-to-farmer sharing of experiences and successes, expert presentations on BBTD biology, symptoms, and management, and interactive sessions on integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, empowered farmers with the necessary knowledge and skills on BBTD symptoms and transmission, including how to recognise infected plants, the importance of early detection and removal of infected plants, disease prevention and management strategies and knowledge on clean planting materials. Farmers were also able to witness and appreciate the impact of BBTD through experience from farmers in Kasese.
Combating Banana Bunchy Top Disease (BBTD): the farmer’s experience
(Video, 2024-12-12) International Institute of Tropical Agriculture
From 3rd to 4th October 2024, 71 stakeholders, including 41 smallholder farmers from the districts of Bushenyi, Rubirizi, Bunyangabu and Kasese districts, staff from IITA, ASARECA, Plant Health Initiative, MAAIF, NARO, Extension Agents, and local policy makers gathered in Kasese district for a comprehensive 2-day learning experience about the emerging BBTD caused by the invasive Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV). Field demonstrations on disease identification, sanitation, and control measures, farmer-to-farmer sharing of experiences and successes, expert presentations on BBTD biology, symptoms, and management, and interactive sessions on integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, empowered farmers with the necessary knowledge and skills on BBTD symptoms and transmission, including how to recognize infected plants, the importance of early detection and removal of infected plants, disease prevention and management strategies and knowledge on clean planting materials. Farmers were also able to witness and appreciate the impact of BBTD through experience from farmers in Kasese.
Combating Banana Bunchy Top Disease (BBTD): the farmer’s experience
(Video, 2024-12-12) International Institute of Tropical Agriculture
From 3rd to 4th October 2024, 71 stakeholders, including 41 smallholder farmers from the districts of Bushenyi, Rubirizi, Bunyangabu and Kasese districts, staff from IITA, ASARECA, Plant Health Initiative, MAAIF, NARO, Extension Agents, and local policy makers gathered in Kasese district for a comprehensive 2-day learning experience about the emerging BBTD caused by the invasive Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV). Field demonstrations on disease identification, sanitation, and control measures, farmer-to-farmer sharing of experiences and successes, expert presentations on BBTD biology, symptoms, and management, and interactive sessions on integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, empowered farmers with the necessary knowledge and skills on BBTD symptoms and transmission, including how to recognize infected plants, the importance of early detection and removal of infected plants, disease prevention and management strategies and knowledge on clean planting materials. Farmers were also able to witness and appreciate the impact of BBTD through experience from farmers in Kasese.
How soon is now? Tackling Africa’s recurrent aflatoxin crises through integrated, multi-sectoral management strategies
(Brief, 2025-03) Ortega-Beltran, A.; Bandyopadhyay, R.; Ehui, S.
Seasonal and spatial distribution of fall armyworm larvae in maize fields: implications for integrated pest management
(Journal Article, 2025-02-01) Zanzana, K.; Sinzogan, A.; Tepa-Yotto, G.; Dannon, E.; Goergen, G.; Tamo, M.
The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, a major pest in maize production, was assessed for its temporal and spatial distribution in maize fields during both the dry and rainy seasons of 2021 and 2022 in two agroecological regions in Benin (zone 6 and 8). Zone 6 (AEZ 6) “called zone of terre de barre” (Southern and Central Benin) consisted of ferralitic soils, a Sudano-Guinean climate (two rainy seasons alternating with two dry seasons) with a rainfall ranging between 800 and 1400 mm of rainfall per year; while zone 8 (AEZ 8) called “fisheries region” (Southern Benin” is characterized by coastal gleysols and arenosols with a Sudano-Guinean climate and a rainfall of 900–1400 mm of rainfall per year. In this study, 30 and 50 maize plants were randomly sampled using a “W” pattern during the dry and rainy seasons, respectively. Larval density, larval infestation rates, and damage severity were monitored over time. Taylor’s power law and the mean crowding aggregation index were applied to evaluate the dispersion patterns of the larvae. The results indicate a higher larval infestation rate and larval density in AEZ 8 compared to AEZ 6 during the dry season. In the rainy season, while the percentage of damaged plants was higher in AZE 8, no significant differences in larval density between the two zones were observed. The dispersion analysis revealed moderate aggregation (aggregation index = 1.25) with a basic colony of 2.08 larvae, i.e., an average initial cluster of 2.08 larvae observed per plant, reflecting the aggregation oviposition behavior of FAW. This study provides valuable monitoring data on the FAW’s distribution, offering insights for further research on population dynamics and developing predictive models for integrated pest management strategies.
Risk assessment of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens (L.), Diptera: Stratiomyidae) larvae composting for circular waste management in southern Benin
(Journal Article, 2025) Ogbon, E.A.; Dzepe, D.; Lalander, C.; Wiklicky, V.; Sinda, P.V.K.; Adeoti, R.; Mignouna, D.; Gbaguidi, B.; Behanzin, J.G.; Riggi, L.; Djouaka, R.
Insect farming is becoming an important business in West Africa, and the black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens (L.), Diptera: Stratiomyidae) is one of the most widely farmed species. In this study, we investigated the potential risk factors, including heavy metals and pesticides, of the implementation of black soldier fly (BSF)-based technology for circular waste management in the context of Benin. The study was performed in two phases. In Phase 1, we identified and estimated the primary sources of biowaste streams suitable for BSF rearing in Benin. The study involved identifying these sources, estimating their availability, and analysing their characteristics, particularly in terms of contamination levels. In Phase 2, each identified biowaste streams was subjected to BSF larvae treatment and the levels of identified contaminants was analysed before and after the treatment, as well as some microbial contaminants such as Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli and yeasts and moulds. The majority of biowaste streams and derived BSF larvae were contaminated with copper, chromium, cadmium, lead, and zinc. However, the concentrations detected were below the standard limit values recommended for animal feed. Traces of pesticides were detected in all biowaste streams and derived frass. No pesticide contamination was detected in BSF larvae. Salmonella spp. was found to be the most predominant pathogenic microorganism in fresh BSF larvae as well as in the frass. We therefore recommended to sanitiInsect farming is becoming an important business in West Africa, and the black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens (L.), Diptera: Stratiomyidae) is one of the most widely farmed species. In this study, we investigated the potential risk factors, including heavy metals and pesticides, of the implementation of black soldier fly (BSF)-based technology for circular waste management in the context of Benin. The study was performed in two phases. In Phase 1, we identified and estimated the primary sources of biowaste streams suitable for BSF rearing in Benin. The study involved identifying these sources, estimating their availability, and analysing their characteristics, particularly in terms of contamination levels. In Phase 2, each identified biowaste streams was subjected to BSF larvae treatment and the levels of identified contaminants was analysed before and after the treatment, as well as some microbial contaminants such as Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli and yeasts and moulds. The majority of biowaste streams and derived BSF larvae were contaminated with copper, chromium, cadmium, lead, and zinc. However, the concentrations detected were below the standard limit values recommended for animal feed. Traces of pesticides were detected in all biowaste streams and derived frass. No pesticide contamination was detected in BSF larvae. Salmonella spp. was found to be the most predominant pathogenic microorganism in fresh BSF larvae as well as in the frass. We therefore recommended to sanitise all BSF larvae that are intended for use in animal feed. As was demonstrated in this study, no Salmonella spp. was found in the sanitised larvae. The findings of this study will promote the establishment of safety measures in the BSF farming sector.se all BSF larvae that are intended for use in animal feed. As was demonstrated in this study, no Salmonella spp. was found in the sanitised larvae. The findings of this study will promote the establishment of safety measures in the BSF farming sector.
Soil organic carbon and nutrient content across agricultural systems in the forest-savannah transition zone of Cameroon
(Journal Article, 2025) Mandah, V.P.; Masso, C.; Onana, A.A.; Fiaboe, K.; Arthur, E.; Giweta, M.; Ndango, R.; Silatsa, F.B.T.; Voulemo, D.D.I.; Biloa, J.B.; Ngeumezi, C.; Tematio, P.
Accurate knowledge of soil characteristics is indispensable for large-scale agriculture while ensuring sustainability, climate change adaptation, and mitigation, which is lacking in Cameroon. This study aimed to assess soil organic carbon (SOC) and nutrient (NPK) content across agricultural systems in the forest-savannah transition zone of Cameroon. Seven agricultural systems were identified namely: the forest-based cocoa agroforestry (Fcocoa), savannah-based cocoa agroforestry (Scocoa), transition zone-based cocoa agroforestry (Tcocoa), savannah mixed cropping of yam, pumpkin, and maize (Sypm), savannah mixed cropping of groundnut, cassava and maize (Sgcm), transition zone mixed cropping of yam, pumpkin, and maize (Typm), and the transition zone mixed cropping of groundnut, cassava, and maize (Tgcm). The soil was sampled at two depths, 0–10 cm (upper layer) and 10–30 cm (lower layer) in three replicates for each farming system and analyzed. Significant differences appeared in soil organic carbon (SOC) (p < 0.002), Total nitrogen (N) (p < 0.001), C:N ratio (p < 0.002), pH (p < 0.01), bulk density (Bd) (p < 0.03), soil organic carbon stock (SOCS) (p < 0.001), and soil nitrogen stock (SNS) (p < 0.001). In the upper and lower layers, the highest concentrations of SOC (25.0 and 16.6 g kg−1), N (2.3 and 1.5 g kg−1), and P (5.1 and 3.3 g kg−1) were recorded in Fcocoa, and K (176.9 and 129.3 mg kg−1) in Scocoa respectively. In the croplands, soil nutrient content was higher in the transition zone while savannah croplands showed higher Bd (≥ 1.4 g cm−3). Soil nutrient content decreased from upper to lower soil layers with a significant difference (p < 0.05) in the croplands for pH, SOCS, and SNS, with a higher magnitude (p < 0.01) in Sgcm. Thus, agroforestry can be considered a potential solution towards ecological resilience.
Combating banana bunchy top disease: an interview with the Kasese district agricultural officer
(Video, 2025-12-12) International Institute of Tropical Agriculture
From 3rd to 4th October 2024, 71 stakeholders, including 41 smallholder farmers from the districts of Bushenyi, Rubirizi, Bunyangabu and Kasese districts, staff from IITA, ASARECA, Plant Health Initiative, MAAIF, NARO, Extension Agents, and local policy makers gathered in Kasese district for a comprehensive 2-day learning experience about the emerging BBTD caused by the invasive Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV). Field demonstrations on disease identification, sanitation, and control measures, farmer-to-farmer sharing of experiences and successes, expert presentations on BBTD biology, symptoms, and management, and interactive sessions on integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, empowered farmers with the necessary knowledge and skills on BBTD symptoms and transmission, including how to recognize infected plants, the importance of early detection and removal of infected plants, disease prevention and management strategies and knowledge on clean planting materials. Farmers were also able to witness and appreciate the impact of BBTD through experience from farmers in Kasese.
A seed system approach to enhance virus disease management invegetatively propagated crops in sub-Saharan Africa
(Abstract, 2025-01) Kumar, P.L.; Aighewi, B.; Balogun, M.; Diebiru-Ojo, E.; Amah, D.; Mignouna, D.; Fiaboe, K.K.M.; Mahuku, G.; Legg, J.P.
Develop risk assessment and preparedness/ biosecurity plans to limit entry of seed borne diseases of phytosanitary importance
(Report, 2024-01-29) Onaga, G.
Developing and implementing biosecurity plans is the most effective way to protect against exotic pests and diseases. Biosecurity involves the proactive measures taken to prevent and manage pests and diseases that have not yet entered a country or a region but are anticipated to do so, whether through seasonal patterns or natural means such as seed importation, trade, or wind dispersal. A Biosecurity Preparedness Plan (BPP) plays a crucial role in managing the risk and impact of the introduction or spread of new pests that pose biosecurity risks. BPPs are important to ensure that NPPOs effectively minimize the biosecurity risks associated with international exchange of rice germplasm, which is crucial for germplasm improvement and food security. AfricaRice conducted workshops in partnership with NPPOs from Cote d’Ivoire and Uganda to ensure that both countries develop BPPs effectively to reduce the biosecurity risks linked to the international exchange of rice germplasm. The initial workshop focused on formulating practical strategies for addressing biosecurity risks linked to the importation of rice germplasm. The emphasis was on showcasing key updates in phytosanitary laws and regulations, pinpointing priority pests and diseases linked to rice, detailing detection and diagnosis techniques, evaluating control and eradication strategies, and deliberating on effective awareness and communication strategies, alongside pertinent policies and standards for the countries involved. A biosecurity preparedness evaluation questionnaire was also developed as part of it. The second workshop focussed on formulating preliminary rice biosecurity plans for the importation of rice germplasm into Uganda and Ivory Coast. The Uganda workshop achieved its intended outcomes in 2024. The Cote d’Ivoire workshop did not; however, there are plans to organize it in 2025.
Eco-friendly and climate smart biopesticides developed and evaluated for their efficacy on target pests
(Report, 2024) Nwilene, F.; Adeoti, A.; Nacro, S.; Ouattara, D.; Umaru, A.; Oladigbolu, A.
Insect pests such as the rice stem borers (African rice gall midge (AfRGM) Orseolia oryzivora, and Diopsis spp.) are among the economically most important pests of rainfed upland/lowland and irrigated rice in Sub-Saharan Africa. The African rice gall midge, Orseolia oryzivora Harris & Gagné (Diptera: Cecidyomyiidae), is an insect pest primarily of rainfed and irrigated lowland rice, and occurs only in sub-Saharan Africa. The larvae cause severe crop damage during the vegetative stages (seedling to panicle initiation) by producing tube-like ‘silver shoot’ or ‘onion leaf’ galls that prevent panicle production. Dipterous stem borers (the stalk-eyed flies – Diopsis spp.) are the most economically important stem borer species of rainfed upland/lowland and irrigated rice in Nigeria. The larvae of stem borers cause significantly yield loss during the vegetative (seedlings to panicle initiation) and reproductive stages by producing deadhearts and whiteheads, respectively, which prevent panicle development. The extensive use of synthetic insecticides to control these pests has raised concerns regarding environmental and human health. Consequently, this has necessitated the need for alternative control measures such as biopesticides. Identifying the use of biopesticides such as botanicals and Entomopathogenic fungi are most promising options for managing AfRGM and stem borers on rice.
Phylogenetic analysis, mixed infection and seed transmission of Pea seed-borne mosaic virus in Ethiopia
(Journal Article, 2025-01-16) Ademe, Anteneh; Kumari, Safaa; Moukahel, Abdulrahman; Alemu, Tesfaye; Abraham, Adane; Aynewa, Yetsedaw; Guadie, Demsachew; Kemal, Seid Ahmed
Pea seed-borne mosaic virus (PSbMV) is a significant pathogen affecting the yield and quality of lentil and chickpea crops in Ethiopia's major legume-producing regions, Amhara and Oromia. This study focuses on characterizing PSbMV and its seed transmission rates, including mixed infections under field conditions. Tissue blot immunoassay (TBIA) analysis revealed that 56.2 % of tested lentil and chickpea samples were infected with PSbMV, often in mixed infections. PSbMV seed transmission rates varied widely among tested lentil genotypes, with the widely grown improved lentil cultivar Alemaya (FLIP 89-63 L) showing a transmission rate as high as 13.5 %. To characterize the isolates, the partial polyprotein gene was amplified and sequenced. Analysis of these sequences showed nucleotide identities ranging from 90.5 % to 100 %. Phylogenetic analysis classified Ethiopian PSbMV isolates (from lentil and chickpea) into four major clades and four subclades. Five lentil isolates (EthLe204-18, EthLe547-18, EthLe12-19, EthLe84-19, and EthLe214-33-19) and one chickpea isolate (EthCp115-19) clustered in subgroup BI, while isolate EthLe343-18 clustered into subgroup BII with an American pathotype-2 isolate (AJ252242). Isolates EthLe7-21 and EthLe381-21 clustered with an Australian P-2 isolate (HQ185579) into group D. Further analysis using RDP indicates intraspecific recombination only in isolate EthLe214-19, with fragments derived from EthLe343-18 and EthLe204-18 as major and minor parents, respectively. No recombination events were detected in the other isolates. This study suggests that variations in lentil genotype resistance to seed infection could be leveraged for resistance breeding, and the impacts of mixed infections on lentil crops warrant further investigation.
Detection and Partial Characterization of Polerovirus and Luteovirus Isolates Associated With Lentil and Chickpea in Ethiopia
(Journal Article, 2025-02-05) Ademe, Anteneh; Kumari, Safaa; Moukahel, Abdulrahman; Alemu, Tesfaye; Abraham, Adane; Aynewa, Yetsedaw; Guadie, Demsachew; Kemal, Seid Ahmed
The partial nucleotide sequence of the coat protein (CP) gene of Ethiopian isolates of chickpea chlorotic stunt virus (CpCSV, genus Polerovirus), beet western yellows virus (BWYV, genus Polerovirus), and soybean dwarf virus (SbDV, genus Luteovirus) was determined from lentil and chickpea plants showing yellowing, stunting, and reddening symptoms. Comparative sequence analysis of CpCSV isolates obtained from five chickpea and five lentil isolates showed 94.9%–100% and 91.9%–98.7% nucleotide sequence identity with each other and with the reference isolates, respectively. One CpCSV isolate from chickpea (MZ043728) showed a close relationship with isolates of the serotype II while the remaining nine isolates were closely related to isolates belonging to serotype I. Sequence identities of three chickpea BWYV isolates varied from 93.3% to 100% with the reference isolates, and one of them (MZ043727) displayed 100% nucleotide identity with previously reported lentil stunt virus (LStV, genus Polerovirus). The chickpea isolates MZ043725 and MZ043726 appear to be identical to each other, whereas the other isolate (MZ043727) was identical to previously identified LStV isolate. The nucleotide sequence of three Ethiopian SbDV isolates had a lower identity with GenBank isolates and their phylogenetic analysis showed that they are clustered separately from the rest of the reference isolates indicating that they are the most divergent. This result generates essential information for further research on legume viruses in Ethiopia. In addition, a detailed study should be conducted in the future to understand the prevalence of LStV and determine the potential yield losses associated with the virus in Ethiopia.
Seed certification, certified seeds use and yield outcomes in Nigeria: Insights from nationally-representative farm panel data and seed company location data
(Journal Article, 2025-03) Takeshima, Hiroyuki; Ragasa, Catherine; Bamiwuye, Temilolu; Andam, Kwaw S.; Spielman, David J.; Edeh, Hyacinth O.; Fasoranti, Adetunji; Haile, Beliyou; Nwagboso, Chibuzo; Omoigui, Lucky O.; Abdoulaye, Tahirou; Kumar, P. Lava; Wossen, Tesfamicheal
CONTEXT Despite the importance of enhanced seed quality to agricultural productivity growth, evidence remains scarce regarding the nature and possible drivers of returns to formal sector quality assurance systems, including certified seeds production in countries like Nigeria that focus significantly on the formal-sector seed systems. OBJECTIVE This study narrows this knowledge gap by estimating the effect of the quantity of certified seeds produced and the spatial variations where they are produced on the use of certified seeds and yields. We also assess the yield effects of certified seeds use and their relationship with agroclimatic and socioeconomic conditions. METHODS We combine nationally-representative farm-household survey panel data with spatial data on the headquarters locations of seed companies, the quantity of certified seeds for maize, cowpea, and rice that they produce, and spatially explicit agroecological data. We apply panel fixed effects methods as well as instrumental-variable methods to address potential endogeneity associated with certified seeds use while also controlling for the use of improved varieties to separate their effects from the effects of certified seeds. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that the availability of certified seeds—captured by indicators of certified seeds produced by seed companies headquartered in the states of survey respondents—is associated with positive but declining marginal effects on certified seeds use and yields. These results are robust when we also consider the potential within-state heterogeneity in the proximity to seed company headquarters, as well as potential spillovers from the nearest adjacent states. The yield effects of certified seeds are heterogeneous and depend on agroclimatic conditions and farmers' socioeconomic characteristics. The use of certified seeds is somewhat higher in areas with higher yield effects after controlling for certified seeds production. These patterns partly lead to observed non-linearities in certified seeds use because certified seeds may be more likely to be used by farmers with higher expected returns than farmers with lower expected returns. These results underscore the importance of spatially targeted efforts in enhancing certified seeds production capacity, together with the exploration of intermediate quality standards in the short term where costs of seed certification are high relative to returns. SIGNIFICANCE The study provides unique quantitative evidence in a nationally representative framework in an African country that returns to seed certification systems in the current setting significantly vary depending on contexts, including agroclimatic conditions.
Training on IPDM R4D innovations provided to rice farmers
(Report, 2024) Nwilene, Francis; Adeoti, A.; Olinya, p.
Eco-friendly and climate smart biopesticides developed and evaluated for their efficacy on target pests
(Report, 2024) Nwilene, Francis; Adeoti, A.; Nacro, S.; Ouattara, D.; Umaru, A.; Oladigbolu, A.
Validation of 4 novel chemicals for rice seed treatment
(Report, 2024) Onaga, Geoffrey; Bachabi, Fatimata
A rapid and scalable rice blast diagnostic tool - Timely disease identification point-of-care system (TIDIS)
(Report, 2024-11-15) Onaga, Geoffrey; Saunders, D.; Paajanen, P.
Rapid and cost-effective sequencing of pathogen genomes has become a fundamental aspect of plant health management in well-resourced settings. This technique needs to be extended to developing countries in order to limit crop losses and improve food security. The combination of pathogen diagnostics and epidemiology with advanced digital disease detection systems has the potential to greatly enhance continuous monitoring, prompt diagnosis, and real-time tracking of crop diseases in regions of the South that have limited access to well-equipped laboratories. AfricaRice and JIC are developing TIDIS, a portable and scalable point-of-care management system for disease identification, under PHI. TIDIS serves as monitoring system that delivers genotypic information of both the host and the pathogen for each field from which the pathogen is isolated and uses this information for epidemiological reconstruction. This facilitates a quick understanding of host specificity of the pathogen on the crop varieties grown in a specific region, thereby improving the effective management of crop diseases. We conducted a pilot of TIDIS on rice blast, a major yield limiting pathogen affecting rice worldwide.

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