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PCR-Based Identification and Characterization of Fusarium sp. Associated with Mango Malformation
1Department of Plant Pathology, G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar (U. S. Nagar), Uttarakhand 263145, India.
Abstract:
Mango malformation is the most serious disease of mango causing considerable damage to the mango orchards worldwide. It is a major threat for mango cultivation in north Indian belt. In recent years, Fusarium sp. is finding wide acceptability in scientific community as a causal agent of this disease. However, little information is known about the variability in Fusarium isolates from malformed mango tissues. Therefore, the major objective of present study was the identification and analysis of genetic diversity among Fusarium isolates collected from malformed mango tissues. Two texon selective primers, ITS-Fu-f and ITS-Fu-r, were used for quick identification of Fusarium spp. The fungal genomic DNA was extracted from using CTAB method and was utilized as template for PCR amplification. Total 224 bands were amplified by 18 RAPD primers at an average of 12.44 bands per primer. The size of the obtained amplicons ranged from 0.264 kb (minimum) to 3.624 kb (maximum). Data scored from 25 isolates of Fusarium sp. with 18 RAPD primers were used to generate similarity coefficients. The similarity coefficient ranged from 0.17 to 0.945. Based on DNA fingerprints, all isolates were categorized into two major clusters. This study indicated a wide variability among different isolates of Fusarium.
Insights
This study analyzed genetic diversity in Fusarium species causing mango malformation disease. Results reveal significant variability among isolates, crucial for understanding and managing this serious threat to mango cultivation.
Area of Science:
- Plant Pathology
- Mycology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Mango malformation is a devastating disease affecting mango orchards globally, particularly in North India.
- Fusarium species are increasingly recognized as the primary causal agents of mango malformation.
- Limited information exists regarding the genetic variability within Fusarium isolates from infected mango tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and analyze the genetic diversity among Fusarium isolates obtained from malformed mango tissues.
- To provide insights into the population structure of Fusarium species responsible for mango malformation.
Main Methods:
- Fungal genomic DNA was extracted using the CTAB method.
- Isolates were identified using specific primers (ITS-Fu-f and ITS-Fu-r).
- Genetic variability was assessed using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers with 18 primers.
Main Results:
- A total of 224 DNA bands were amplified, ranging from 0.264 to 3.624 kb.
- Similarity coefficients among 25 Fusarium isolates ranged from 0.17 to 0.945.
- DNA fingerprinting clustered the isolates into two main groups, indicating wide genetic variability.
Conclusions:
- Significant genetic diversity exists among Fusarium isolates from malformed mangoes.
- Understanding this variability is essential for developing effective disease management strategies.
- Further research into Fusarium population genetics can aid in controlling mango malformation.
