Understanding Mango Gummosis Disease

Gummosis, also known as gumming syndrome, is a significant concern affecting commercially important fruit trees like mango crops and Prunus spp. This condition involves the exudation of gum in response to various injuries, leading to substantial losses in fruit production and sometimes tree mortality.

The causes of gummosis are diverse, including environmental stress, mechanical wounds, and infestations by pests or pathogens. For instance, Cytospora canker is a fungal disease commonly associated with gummosis in mango trees. Infected trees exhibit symptoms such as yellowing or wilting of new shoots and leaves. Sunken lesions develop on the bark, from which amber-colored, gummy sap oozes. As the disease progresses, curly orange fungal threads may emerge from the bark, and leaves often brown and drop prematurely.

The impact of gummosis on mango orchards can be devastating, with yield losses ranging from 30% to 100% in severe cases. Infected trees exhibit abundant gum secretion from branches, stems, and the main trunk, alongside vascular discoloration. In the worst instances, entire mango trees may succumb to the disease.

Efforts to manage mango gummosis include maintaining orchard hygiene, promptly pruning and disposing of infected plant material, and applying appropriate fungicides. Research into resistant cultivars and sustainable farming practices continues to be vital in mitigating the economic and ecological impacts of this widespread fruit tree disease.
Understanding Mango Gummosis Disease