Present status of witches’ broom disease of cocoa in Trinidad

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Abstract
A survey was conducted of 21 estates and cocoa germplasm collections at locations representative of the cocoa growing areas of Trinidad to determine the current status of witches’ broom disease of cocoa on the island. The disease caused by Crinipellis perniciosa (Stahel) Singer, was prevalent at all sites investigated. Its incidence was however considerably less than that reported in the 1940s and 1950s. The widespread cultivation of resistant cocoa genotypes appeared to be the dominant factor responsible for the reduced disease level. It was also observed that recommended management practices such as fertilizer application, regular weeding and shade regulation, all conducive to vigorous tree growth, were neglected on most estates. Consequently, the heavily shaded crop does not flush or flower so intensely as to provide an abundant supply of susceptible tissues for the pathogen which only attacks meristematic tissues. Evidence indicating the probable absence of the severe pathotype of C. perniciosa reported from Ecuador and Colombia was also noted.

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