Spatial distribution and morphological characterization of Ceratocystis fimbriata associated with wilt disease of duku in Ogan Ilir, Indonesia

¹ Graduate Program of Agriculture Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sriwijaya, Palembang, South Sumatra, Indonesia
² Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sriwijaya, Indralaya, South Sumatra, Indonesia
³ Graduate Program of Crop Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sriwijaya, Indralaya, South Sumatra, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

Ceratocystis wilt disease, caused by Ceratocystisfimbriate, has emerged as a devastating threat to the sustainability of duku (Lansium domesticum) production in South Sumatra. Despite its high severity, the spatial distribution, epidemiological drivers, and characterization of the local pathogen in the Ogan Ilir region remain undocumented. This study aims to describe the spatial distribution of the disease, evaluate the epidemiological dynamics of abiotic and biotic factors, and provide morphological characterization and definitive molecular identification of the causative agent. A field survey at one affected location, followed by aseptic isolation and identification through Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) rDNA sequencing, revealed a significant disease incidence, with an incidence rate reaching 73.39% in Miji. Symptoms observed included characteristic xylem discoloration, necrotic stem lesions, and rapid crown decline leading to tree death. Morphological assessment of the isolate was consistent with the genus Ceratocystis, and phylogenetic analysis confirmed that the isolate shared >70% sequence similarity with C. fimbriata. This study establishes C. fimbriata as the primary etiologic agent of lethal wilt disease in L. domesticum in Ogan Ilir. Therefore, an integrated management strategy that includes early monitoring, orchard sanitation, and environmental management is crucial to suppress the disease and ensure sustainable L. domesticum production.