Soft rot in organic banana pseudostem (Musasp):Symptomatology, cultural and biochemical characterization, pathogenicity,and management alternatives

The banana (Musa sp.) is a very important crop in the socioeconomic development of Peru. soft rot disease has been causing economic losses. objective was to isolate and identify causal agent implement management alternatives. Bacteria were isolated from pseudostem with symptoms 11 producing areas Chira Valley. pathogenicity tests carried on segments shoots. eight isolates culturally, morphologically biochemically characterized: All Gram negative, rod-shaped, peritrichous flagella colonies formed deep cavities crystal violet pectate (CVP) medium. Biochemical showed positive catalase reaction, gelatin hydrolysis, glucose lactose fermentation, tolerance NaCl 5%. However, TSI (Triple Iron Sugar) medium erythromycin sensitivity only A2M, A3Ma, A5Mall, A7VF, A9Sa A10 reacted positively A6Q A11Sal negatively. Growth at 28, 30, 36, 37 45 °C for all isolates, exception which did not develop °C. Cultural characteristics, biochemical allowed six as Pectobacterium chrysanthemi two P. carotovorum subsp. carotovorum. Disease based use certified suckers, adequate fertilization, organic matter applications, biocontrol agents weevil insect control.