Fusarium Wilt of Bananas: A Review of Agro-Environmental Factors in the Venezuelan Production System Affecting Its Development

Abstract

Bananas and plantains (Musa spp.) are among the main staple of millions of people in the world. Among the main Musaceae diseases that may limit its productivity, Fusarium wilt (FW), caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc), has been threatening the banana industry for many years, with devastating effects on the economy of many tropical countries, becoming the leading cause of changes in the land use on severely affected areas. In this article, an updated, reflective and practical review of the current state of knowledge concerning the main agro-environmental factors that may affect disease progression and dissemination of this dangerous pathogen has been carried out, focusing on the Venezuelan Musaceae production systems. Environmental variables together with soil management and sustainable cultural practices are important factors affecting FW incidence and severity, excluding that the widespread dissemination of Foc, especially of its highly virulent tropical race 4 (TR4), is mainly caused by human activities. Additionally, risk analysis and climatic suitability maps for Foc TR4 in Venezuela have been developed. Although currently there are no effective management solutions available for FW control, this perspective provides an overview on the influence that environmental and agricultural variables would have on FW incidence and severity, giving some insight into management factors that can contribute to reducing its detrimental effects on banana production and how climate change may affect its development.