Powdery mildew of mango: A review of ecology, biology, epidemiology and management

Powdery mildew of mango, incited by the fungus Pseudoidium anacardii (F. Noack) U. Braun & R.T.A. Cook 2012 (formerly known as Oidium mangiferae Berthet), is one of the most common, widespread and serious diseases throughout the world and causes significant yield losses. Symptomatology, biology, and etiology of powdery mildew and its control through fungicides have not been widely studied, and substantial information is still required on the inoculum potential, growth models and epidemiological parameters of powdery mildew, influence of changing climate, impact of extensive use of fungicides and disease resistance. These critical factors may influence the development and emergence of diverse isolates of O. mangiferae including fungicide-resistant strains. Mango varieties differ slightly in their reaction to powdery mildew but a source of resistance has not been identified. In view of the increasing demands of mangoes in the world, control of powdery mildew is gaining importance. The present review treats briefly different aspects of powdery mildew disease with major emphasis on its ecology, pathology, epidemiology and management. Some new approaches such as biological control, integrated management strategies and some other aspects which have not been highlighted in former reviews, are also discussed.