Abstract
Antagonistic effect of some locally available plant spp. on Rigidoporus microporus (Fr.) Overeem, which causes white root disease was tested in vitro and in the field. As in vitro tests, Poisoned Food Technique (PFT) and Soil Fungicide Screening Test (SFST) were used. In the field study, the plant species were established in plots and were inoculated with Rigidoporus microporus. The innoculum potential of the soil of each plot was assessed after a certain period of time. Among the nine species used, several species showed antagonistic action over Rigidoporus microporus at in vitro tests, while Alpinia galanga L. (Galangale) showed the most significant inhibitory effect. In the field trial, the plot with Alpinia galanga showed a significantly low innoculum potential. Alpinia galanga has the potential to be developed as an antagonistic agent against the white root disease.
Highlights
White root disease is the most destructive root disease in rubber plantations of Sri Lanka and in many other rubber growing countries
The drench application of two systemic fungicides tebuconazole and hexaconazole are currently recommended
Fungicides have been known to have a negative effect on human health, cause environmental pollution and leave residues in the agricultural soil (Soytong et al, 2005; Haggag and Mohamed, 2007)
Summary
White root disease is the most destructive root disease in rubber plantations of Sri Lanka and in many other rubber growing countries. It spreads in a devastating rate and causes unproductive bare patches in mature plantations and death of young plants in immature plantations. The currently recommended management practices are mainly directed at preventive approaches based on the removal of the infectious source. The drench application of two systemic fungicides tebuconazole and hexaconazole are currently recommended. Fungicides have been known to have a negative effect on human health, cause environmental pollution and leave residues in the agricultural soil (Soytong et al, 2005; Haggag and Mohamed, 2007). Pesticides which are readily metabolized or having broad spectrum of activity can endanger non-target pests or other components of the ecosystem
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