Characterization of Corynespora cassiicola causing leaf spot and fruit rot in eggplant (Solanum melongena L.).

Diseases are important limiting factors in profitable eggplant production. Identifying correctly the causative agent of disease and reporting new emerging pathogens are critical steps in a successful disease management program. The study was conducted to identify the causative agents of a leaf spot and fruit rot in eggplant using combined morphological, cultural, pathogenicity and molecular approaches. Three fungal isolates were obtained from diseased leaf and fruit samples. All three isolates were pathogenic to detached fruits and leaves and on leaves of potted plants at seven days post-inoculation. The same fungi were re-isolated from the inoculated leaves and fruits and thus, establishing Koch's postulates. The DNA sequence of the partial sequence of the internal transcribed spacer regions of the three isolates showed 100% similarity to Corynespora cassiicola. This is the first record of C. cassiicola as an eggplant leafspot pathogen in the Philippines and a new record for the fungus as a fruit rot pathogen. With limited knowledge available, fruit rot caused by C. cassiicola may negatively affect potential fruit yield in the field and the quality of marketable fruits. Screening for disease resistance would be worthwhile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]