Papaya Dieback infection in Malaysia

A papaya die-back disease was first reported in Malaysia by the Johor State Department of Agriculture in 2003. By the end of 2006 it had spread to five other states on the west coast of the Malaysian peninsula, affecting ca. 800 ha and resulting in the destruction of 1 million trees. Total yield losses were estimated at 200,000 metric tonnes, equivalent to US$ 58 million. The varieties affected were Eksotika, Solo, Hong Kong and Sekaki. Early symptoms included yellowing and necrosis along leaf edges followed by water-soaked areas on the bases of leaf stalks, crowns and along leaf mid-ribs. Fruit symptoms included dark spots on the skin and water-soaked flesh. Later, necrotic and water-soaked areas developed on stems and spread to the internal tissues, followed by secondary fungal infections. In advanced stages bending of water-soaked leaf stalks occurs, leading to dieback, and death of trees.
After 6 years of research & trials MARDI has come out with DIEBACK BUSTER.

DIEBACK BUSTER was launched on 1st August in conjunction with Exotic Star (M) Sdn Bhd at one of their farm in Dengkil. This even was graced by YB Dato' Nogeh Gumbek, Timbalan Menteri Pertanian & Industri Asa Tani.

A short video was also shownDieback Buster - Teknologi Kerintangan Sistemik Teraruh (ISR)

 Developments & trials were done in various area including this farm. Successful rate is as high as 95%.

 Some displays at their exhibition booth

 

Dr. Ganisan Krishnen, the man behind DIEBACK BUSTER.
  The Adjustable Volumetric Liquid Gun. This is also developed to ease application for bigger farms in order to reduce labor, thus reducing application time and cost.

A grafted Solo Papaya tree.