Analysis of the distribution status of chickpea Fusarium wilt (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri) and association of factors influencing the disease in Central and South Gondar, Northwestern Ethiopia

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Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri causes chickpea Fusarium wilt and reduces yields. This study investigated the distribution status of chickpea Fusarium wilt (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri) and the association of factors influencing the disease in Northwestern Ethiopia during the 2021 and 2022 cropping seasons. Random sampling design methods were employed in the survey. A total of 896 farmers’ fields were assessed along the roads. The data were analyzed using SAS software. The disease prevalence was 100% in all districts (East Dembiya, Fogera, Gondar Zuriya, and Libokemkem). The highest and lowest incidences were 38.26 and 31.51% in the East Dembiya and Libokemkem districts, respectively. Year, district, chickpea variety, soil type, weeding practice, and plant growth stage were the most important biophysical factors in the chickpea incidence when entered first and last into the models. Fusarium wilt has been a major problem for chickpea production. Hence, monitoring and integrated disease management options should be applied to managing Fusarium chickpea wilt.