Prevalence of Anthracnose Disease on Mango (Mangifera indica) in Ondo State, South West Nigeria

Mango (Mangifera indica) is an economically important fruit crop in Ondo State, contributing significantly to farmer incomes and local fruit markets in the South West geopolitical zone. Anthracnose disease, caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, has been reported as a consistent constraint on mango quality and marketability in tropical environments. This study assessed the prevalence and distribution of anthracnose on mango orchards across five selected communities in Ondo State. Field inspections during the 2023 fruiting season covered 35 orchards, with disease ratings applied to foliage, floral panicles, and fruits. Fungal isolation and morphological characterisation confirmed C. gloeosporioides as the dominant pathogen. Disease prevalence reached 74 percent across sampled orchards, with post-bloom infection contributing significantly to pre-harvest fruit drop. Orchards with overhead irrigation and those exposed to prolonged periods of high humidity showed the highest disease scores. Post-harvest assessments revealed that fruits from severely affected orchards had an average shelf life reduction of four to six days relative to fruits from healthy orchards, constituting considerable commercial losses. Farmers predominantly relied on copper-based fungicides applied on an irregular basis, reducing their efficacy. The study recommends the adoption of an integrated disease management programme, including improved pruning practices to enhance air circulation and well-timed fungicide applications during high-risk periods. Keywords: mango, anthracnose, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Ondo State, disease prevalence.