Evaluating the Dynamics of Mycorrhizal Populations and Wilt Severity in Chili Cultivation Regions

Abstract

Chili peppers (Capsicum annuum L.) are a widely cultivated spice and vegetable globally, with their origins rooted in Mexico. The primary diseases impacting chili production encompass Anthracnose, Phytophthora, Leaf blight, Fusarium wilt, bacterial wilt, damping-off, and root rot, among others. In recent years, there has been a growing concern surrounding Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum. This study aimed to investigate the fluctuations in mycorrhizal populations and the severity of wilt in chili farming regions within the state during the 2017-18 growing season. In each district, ten fields were examined, with two to three fields representing each village. The most substantial mycorrhizal colonization rate and the number of sporocarps in the soil were identified in Mahendragarh, with a mycorrhizal colonization rate of 17.3% and 260 sporocarps per 200 g of soil. Fatehabad district followed with a mycorrhizal colonization rate of 13.1% and 182 sporocarps per 200g of soil. The lowest values were recorded in Hisar district, with a mycorrhizal colonization rate of 11.5% and 138 sporocarps per 200g of soil. Wilt severity was most pronounced in Fatehabad district at 7.9%, followed by Mahendragarh at 7.3%, and was least severe in Hisar at 5.2%.