Abstract

CORREA SANCHEZ, Elizabeth et al. Etiology of Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) Watery Spot in Tabasco, Mexico. Rev. mex. fitopatol [online]. 2011, vol.29, n.2, pp.165-167. ISSN 2007-8080.

A disease of the roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) of unknown etiology epidemically appeared in Tabasco, Mexico, during 2008-2009 with more than 70% incidence. The diseased plants were characterized by circular and irregularly shaped, light brown colored spots on leaves, necrotic lesions with water-like appearance extended to the entire leaf blade and petiole. The leaf spots initiated from the lower leaves and advanced to higher foliage, resulting in full defoliation and yield losses. Through postulates from Koch, the colony's morphology and DNA sequencing, it was concluded that the causal agent corresponds to the fungus Pilidiella diplodiella fungus (syn. Phoma diplodiella). This is the first report of P. diplodiella causing a disease in roselle, that in the present study has been referred to as watery spot due to the water-like appearance in one of its stages of development.

Keywords : Pilidiella diplodiella; Phoma diplodiella; roselle.