Morpho-Molecular Identification of Lasiodiplodia theobromae Causing Root Rot of Mulberry in India

The root rot disease caused by Lasiodiplodia theobromae in Morus alba emerged as a serious problem that affect sustainable mulberry production. In this study, the disease symptoms like yellowing of leaves, blackening, and rotting of roots were observed. The associated pathogen was isolated from infected root tissue and pure culture was raised. Based on morphological features, ITS sequencing, and phylogenetic analyses, the fungal pathogen is identified as Lasiodiplodia theobromae. The sequence was deposited in NCBI with the accession number MK811183. The pathogenicity was confirmed by artificial inoculation on mulberry seedlings. This disease can cause great economic loss, as every part of the plant is infected. So, correct identification of disease to take timely management measures is a must, this basic work will give proper identification of pathogen and help to improvise the mulberry production in the country.