Assessment of Fusarium wilt (Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. sesami) Disease Incidence in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) in Western Tigray, Northern Ethiopia

Abstract

Fusarium wilt disease is one of the most serious diseases threatening sesame production in Tigray, northern Ethiopia. The aim of the present study was to assess Fusarium wilt disease incidence and its association with agronomic practices and environmental factors. Field survey was conducted in Kafta-Humera, Welkayt and Tsegedie districts in 2018 cropping season. A total of 92 farmers’ fields were assessed for the prevalence and incidence of the disease. Results indicated that 67% of farmers’ fields were infected by Fusarium wilt disease from the total assessed fields. Fusarium wilt disease incidence was varied from 0.22% to 80%.  It was ranged from 0-72% in Kafta-Humera, 0-56% in Welkayt and 0-80% in Tsegedie. The mean disease incidence was 11.89% at Kafta-Humera, 11.14% at Welkayt and 10.69% at Tsegedie. According to the single predictor in the logistic regression model Fusarium wilt disease incidence was most affected significantly (p < 0.05) with the previous crop and altitude. Higher levels of disease incidence were recorded when the previous crop was sesame, lower altitudes and in clay loam soil texture. Overall results of the present study indicated that Fusarium wilt disease is the major challenge to sesame production in study areas. Therefore, efforts should be put in place to manage the disease via integration of appropriate strategies.