Identificação de Doenças em Amaranthus Blitum L.; A. Viridis L. na Cooperativa Agrijovem do Quicombo

Abstract

Plant diseases represent a significant challenge for agricultural production, directly affecting plant productivity and quality. Local species of Amaranthus blitum and viridis possess high commercial potential, driven by growing demand and initiatives to combat rural poverty. However, limited diagnostic capacity and the absence of effective control methods have hindered the phytosanitary management of these crops. Between April and June 2024, field trials were conducted at the Agrijovem Cooperative in Quicombo, funded by PDCT-MESCTI, with the aim of identifying the main diseases with economic impact on the production of these species. The plants were visually inspected with a magnifying glass, photographed, and samples of the affected parts collected. Microscopic analyses at the ISPCS Biology Laboratory, combined with morphological identification keys and the Agrio Software, allowed for the identification of white rust as the most prevalent disease. This foliar disease was favored by specific climatic conditions relative humidity of 80% and an average temperature of 25 °C reaching an incidence rate exceeding 50%. The leaf spots caused by the fungus impair the appearance of the vegetables, making their commercialization unfeasible. Identifying white rust makes it possible to adopt effective control strategies, aiming to protect production and ensure the quality required by the market.