In vitro, In vivo and In situ, Effect of Mancozeb 80 WP on Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (Penz.) Penz. and Sacc., Causative Agent of Anthracnose of Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) in Chad and Cameroon

Abstract
Aims: The aim of this work was to evaluate effect of Mancozeb 80 WP against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, the agent responsible of anthracnose of cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale L.). Study Design: The experimental design was in completely randomized blocks with three replications. Place and Duration of Study: in vitro and in vivo experiments were performed in Laboratory of Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maroua during six months. Field trial was carried out in Kelo, Chad during three months. Methodology: Isolates were obtained from diseased organs (leaves and fruits) from Kélo in Chad and Maroua in Cameroon. The concentrations used in the laboratory were C1 (5 mg/ml), C2 (0.5 mg/ml), C3 (0.05 mg/ml), C4 (0.005 mg/ml), C5 (0.0 mg/ml). Radial growth, sporulation, conidial germination and pathogenicity were used to characterize and evaluate the effect of Mancozeb on the isolates in vitro. The preventive test was performed on three-month-old plants previously treated with Mancozeb. The concentration of 5 g/l was applied to the field and the incidence and severity were used to calculate the AUIPC (Area Under Disease Incidence Progress Curve) and AUSiPC (Area Under Disease Severity Index Progress Curve) curves. Results: Mancozeb reduced radial growth of all isolates at concentrations C1 (5 mg/ml), C2 (0.5 mg/ml) and C3 (0.05 mg/ml). The percentages of inhibition ranged from 50 to 100%. Mancozeb 80 WP completely (100%) inhibited the germination of C. gloeosporioides conidia in vitro. Mancozeb has protected cashew plants in vivo at the concentration C1 (5 mg/ml). AUIPC and AUSiPC were higher on control plants and lower on Mancozeb-treated plants. Conclusion: Mancozeb 80 WP may be associated in integrated pest management strategy against anthracnose.