Evaluating black pod resistance in cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) and its relationship with phenotypical and biochemical characteristics
2024
Janaki Seifudeen Minimol | Basura Suma | Anna Mary | Thiruvathra Krishnakutty Shija | Sherin Jose | Sainamole Kurian Plappallil
Disease associated with Phytophthora is a great menace to cocoa. Chemical control measures are however proven to be ineffective. Hence, the most feasible and effective method to combat this situation is using resistant planting material as they are the source of genetic variance. The level of resistance against black pod disease was assessed among 24 international clones of cocoa by the non pricking method of detached pod inoculation. In the non-pricking method, 11 genotypes were grouped under the highly resistant category. The binomial logistic regression model revealed that phenes like polyphenol content, wax, husk polyphenol, and calcium content had a positive influence on Phytophthora resistance. Upon completing further validation, these phenes might be considered for the selection of resistant genotypes from a population. From the present investigation, it was found accessions NA 33, NA 702, and PA 70 showed maximum resistance to disease with high yield potential which could be utilized for further genetic improvement programs in cocoa.
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