Evaluation of fungicides, biocontrol agents, and plant-based products for managing black banded disease in mango

Abstract

This study evaluated the effectiveness of various fungicides, combinatory products, bio-agents, and plant extracts against Pestalotiopsis guepinii and black banded disease of mango. In vitro tests showed that non-systemic fungicides such as Copper oxychloride, Mancozeb, and Bordeaux mixture were highly effective, with Copper oxychloride achieving 100% inhibition at higher concentrations. Systemic fungicides Hexaconazole and Carbendazim also achieved complete inhibition, while combinatory products like Carbendazim + Mancozeb were most effective. Bio-agent tests revealed that Trichoderma harzianum provided the highest mycelial inhibition (80.40%), whereas bacterial antagonists had lower efficacy. Among plant extracts, Lantana camara leaf extract showed the highest antifungal activity, with up to 56.66% inhibition. Field trials in Dharwad and Bengaluru Rural demonstrated that Bordeaux paste was the most effective treatment, reducing disease incidence by up to 72.80%. Other effective treatments included Carbendazim + Mancozeb and Carbendazim + Mancozeb + Lantana camara extract. These results highlight the potential of integrating chemical, biological, and botanical control measures for effective disease management in crops, promoting more sustainable agricultural practices.