Overview
Two new Amazonian cocoa cultivars have been identified with demonstrated resistance to witches' broom disease. This research suggests a potential pathway to increasing cocoa production in the Amazon region with reduced reliance on fungicides and fertilizers.
Research Context
Witches' broom disease, caused by the fungus *Moniliophthora perniciosa*, significantly impacted cocoa crops in southern Bahia state, Brazil, during the 1990s. The disease remains a challenge for the chocolate industry across the Amazon region. Current disease management often involves the use of fungicides and fertilizers.
Findings
- The study identified two specific Amazonian cocoa cultivars that possess resistance to witches' broom disease.
- These cultivars exhibited both high resistance to the disease and high productivity.
Why This Matters
The identification of these resistant and productive cocoa cultivars offers a promising alternative for cocoa growers. It could contribute to increased cocoa production in the Amazon region without the intensive use of fungicides and fertilizers, which are currently employed to combat witches' broom disease.