Distribution of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) root rot complex and associated pathogens in eastern Ethiopia

Groundnut root rot is a complex disease affecting the crop production worldwide. The objectives of this study were to: (1) Assess occurrence and distribution groundnut in four main groundnut-growing areas eastern Ethiopia; (2) Identify major pathogens associated with complex; (3) Determine role singly combination on severity under greenhouse conditions. A total 240 fields surveyed over two seasons, 75% infected complex. Mean percent prevalence incidence highest Babile, followed by Gursum, while Darolebu had lowest. Fusarium oxysporum (Fo) was most common fungus isolated from roots, solani (Fs) Rhizoctonia bataticola (Rb). Other fungi less frequently included Sclerotium rolfsii (Sr) (Rs). pathogenicity test showed that all pathogenic to groundnut, Fs being virulent causing rot, Rb Fo, Sr Rs pathogenic. Disease higher plants co-inoculated than either alone. Fs, Fo found be causal Ethiopia, important destructive pathogen acted as synergistic Rb; thus, breeding for resistance management strategies should focus these pathogens.   Key words: oxysporum, solani, incidence, pathogenicity, interaction, prevalence, bataticola, severity.&nbsp