A N A N D N I K E TA N C O L L E G E O F

ASSIGNMENT A G R I C U LT U R E , WA R O R A

COURSE TITLE
DISEASES OF FIELD
AND HORTICULTURE
CROPS AND THEIR
MANAGEMENT- II
NAME :HARSHAL LEKRAM MENDHE
ENROLLMENT NO : SS393
BATCH : B
COURSE NO.PATH365
TOPIC : SCAB OF CITRUS
SUBMITTED TO :DR.PRASHANT RAKHONDE
OF
CIT
RUS
CONTENT
• INTRODUCTION
• SYMPTOMS
• ETIOLOGY
• DISEASE CYCLE
• PERPETUATION
• EPIDEMIOLOGY
• MANAGEMENT
INTRODUCTION • Scab of citrus, also known as citrus scab or
Elsinoë scab, is a fungal disease that affects
citrus trees.
• It is caused by the fungus Elsinoë fawcettii.
• The disease primarily affects the rinds of
citrus fruits, causing scaly, raised lesions or
scabs.
• Citrus scab can impact a wide range of
citrus species and varieties, including
oranges, lemons, grapefruits, mandarins, and
limes.
• However, the susceptibility to scab can
vary among different citrus cultivars.
SYMPTOMSO • Raised, corky scabs on the
F CITRUS leaf surface.
• Scabs can vary in size,
SCAB : ranging from small specks to
LEAF larger lesions.
• Lesions may have a rough or
bumpy appearance.
• As the disease progresses,
leaves may become distorted
or stunted.
SYMPTOMSO • Raised, corky scabs or lesions on
the fruit surface.
F CITRUS • Scabs are typically circular or
SCAB : irregular in shape.
• Scabs may have a rough, scaly
FRUITS texture.
• Initially, the lesions are light
green but turn darker over time.
• Severely affected fruits may
become deformed and drop
prematurely
TWIG SYMPTOMSOF CITRUS • Scabs or lesions can develop on young twigs and stems.
• Similar to fruit and leaf symptoms, they appear as raised,
SCAB corky areas.
• Severely affected twigs may become distorted or cracked.
• Citrus scab is caused by the fungus Elsinoe fawcettii. It
thrives in warm, humid conditions and spreads through
wind, rain, and infected plant material.
• Proper management and control measures, such as
maintaining good hygiene, pruning infected parts, and
applying appropriate fungicides, can help prevent and
manage citrus scab.

• If you suspect citrus scab affecting your citrus plants, it's

best to consult with a local horticulturist, plant pathologist,
or agricultural extension service for an accurate diagnosis
and guidance on treatment options.
 • The term "scab" in citrus disease refers to
ETIOLOGY 0F a fungal infection caused by the pathogen
CITRUS DISEASE Elsinoë fawcettii. The etiology, or the
cause, of scab disease in citrus can be
attributed to various factors. Here are
some key aspects:

• The primary cause of scab disease in

citrus is the fungus Elsinoë fawcettii. It
is an Ascomycete fungus that infects the
leaves, fruit, and twigs of citrus trees,
leading to the development of scab
symptoms.
 DISEASE CYCLE OF CITRUS SCAB
Citrus scab is a fungal disease caused by the pathogen Elsinoë fawcettii. The disease affects various citrus
plants, including oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and limes. The disease cycle of citrus scab typically involves
several stages:

Infectio n: The disease cycle begins when fungal spores, known as conidia, are released from infected plant parts or
fallen leaves. These spores are spread primarily by wind and rain. When conditions are favorable, such as high
humidity and temperatures between 68°F and 86°F (20°C and 30°C), the spores can germinate and infect susceptible
citrus tissues.

Lesion development : Once the spores land on the citrus fruit or leaves, they penetrate the plant's tissues and initiate an
infection. The first visible symptoms are small, raised, corky lesions on the fruit or leaves. These lesions may initially
appear yellowish and then turn brown or black over time. Lesions can also occur on twigs, branches, and petioles.

Spore productio n: As the lesions develop, the fungus produces more spores. The spores are typically formed
within pustules or raised structures on the surface of the lesions. These pustules may appear as small, scaly, or
corky structures.

Spore dissemination: Mature pustules rupture, releasing the conidia into the environment. The conidia are
carried by wind, rain, or physical contact to other citrus trees or nearby susceptible plant parts, where they
can initiate new infections.
 PERPETUATION OF SCAB OF CITRUS
To prevent the perpetuation of citrus scab, it's important to take certain measures :

Plant resistant citrus varieties: Some citrus varieties are more resistant to scab than others. When planting new citrus trees, choose
varieties that have a known resistance to citrus scab. Consult with local agricultural extension services or nurseries for
recommendations.

Practice good sanitation : Remove and destroy any fallen leaves, fruit, or twigs from the ground or tree canopy, as they may harbor
fungal spores. Prune and discard infected twigs or branches from citrus trees to reduce the source of infection.

Apply fungicides : In commercial citrus orchards or severe scab outbreaks, fungicides may be applied as a preventive measure.
Consult with local agricultural experts or extension services for approved fungicides and appropriate application timings.

Manage moisture and humidity : The fungus that causes citrus scab thrives in wet and humid conditions. Avoid excessive irrigation,
especially during rainy seasons, and ensure good air circulation within the citrus canopy by proper pruning and tree spacing.

Monitor and control other pests : Insects and mites can create wounds on citrus fruit, providing entry points for the scab fungus.
Implement integrated pest management practices to monitor and control pests effectively.

Practice crop rotation: If you have a home citrus garden, avoid planting citrus trees in the same location where scab-infected fruit
or leaves have fallen. Consider rotating other crops in the area to break the disease cycle.
 EPIDEMIOLOGY OF SCAB OF CITRUS
The epidemiology of scab of citrus disease involves various stages in the development and spread of the pathogen. The disease cycle
typically consists of the following steps:

a. Overwintering : The fungus survives the winter in infected plant debris, such as fallen leaves and fruit. These sources serve as
inoculum for the next growing season.

b. Spore Production: As environmental conditions become favorable in spring or early summer, the fungus produces asexual spores
called conidia on the infected plant debris.

c. Spore Dispersal: The conidia are dispersed by wind, rain, or human activities to nearby healthy citrus trees. Long-distance dispersal
can occur through wind currents.

d. Infection : When the conidia land on susceptible plant tissues, such as young shoots, leaves, or fruit, they germinate and
penetrate the host through natural openings or wounds. Infection is favored by prolonged leaf wetness, high humidity, and
temperatures between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit).

e. Lesion Development : Once inside the host, the fungus grows and develops, causing raised, scaly lesions on the citrus fruit or other
plant parts. These lesions are the characteristic symptoms of citrus scab.

Favorable Environmental Conditions : The epidemiology of scab of citrus disease is influenced by specific environmental conditions that
favor disease development. The key factors include:

a. Temperature : Optimal temperature ranges between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit) for disease development.
Lower temperatures slow down fungal growth, while higher temperatures inhibit spore germination and infection.
:

b. Relative Humidity: High humidity, particularly above 90%, promotes the germination of spores and subsequent infection.

c. Rainfall: Rain events contribute to the spread of the disease by causing splashing of spores from infected plant debris to healthy citrus trees.

Host Susceptibility: Citrus scab can affect a wide range of citrus species and cultivars. However, the susceptibility to the disease can vary among
different citrus varieties. Some varieties may exhibit resistance or tolerance to scab, while others are highly susceptible.

Disease Management: Effective management of citrus scab involves a combination of strategies aimed at reducing the spread and severity of the disease
These strategies include:

a. Sanitation: Proper removal and destruction of infected plant debris, such as fallen leaves and fruit, reduce the overwintering inoculum.

b. Pruning: Pruning practices that enhance air circulation and sunlight penetration can help reduce humidity levels and create an unfavorable
environment for disease development.

c. Fungicides: Application of fungicides at appropriate timings can help protect susceptible citrus trees from infection. Fungicides are typically used
preventively and should be chosen based on local recommendations and regulations.

d. Resistant Cultivars: Planting citrus varieties that exhibit resistance or tolerance to scab can significantly reduce the impact of the disease. Breeding
programs have focused on developing resistant varieties to combat citrus scab.

e. Monitoring: Regular monitoring of citrus orchards for the presence of scab lesions or signs of infection is crucial. Early detection allows for timely
intervention and management.

It's important to note that local conditions, citrus cultivation practices, and available control measures may vary. Therefore, it is advisable to consult
local agricultural authorities or citrus experts for region-specific guidance on managing scab of citrus disease.
 MANAGEMENT OF CITRUS SCAB
The management of scab of citrus disease involves a combination of cultural, chemical, and genetic
strategies. Here are some commonly employed management practices:

Cultural Practices :

1)Sanitation: Proper sanitation practices are essential for managing citrus scab. Remove and
destroy fallen leaves, infected fruit, and other plant debris from the orchad. This
reduces the overwintering source of inoculum.

2) Pruning: Prune citrus trees to improve air circulation and sunlight

penetration within the canopy. This helps reduce humidity levels and creates an unfavorable
environment for disease development.
3) Irrigation Management : Avoid overhead irrigation or reduce the duration of
leaf wetness to minimize the conditions suitable for fungal growth and spore
 Chemical Control:
Fungicide Application: Fungicides can be used to manage citrus scab. Apply fungicides according to local
recommendations and follow the instructions for proper timing and dosage. Different fungicides with scab control
efficacy are available, and the choice of product should be based on local regulations, citrus variety, and the severity of
the disease.

Genetic Strategies:
Resistant Cultivars: Planting citrus varieties that are resistant or tolerant to scab can significantly reduce the impact of
the disease. Breeding programs have focused on developing scab-resistant citrus varieties. Consult with local nurseries or
agricultural extension services to identify and select resistant varieties suitable for your region.

Monitoring and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) :

Regular Monitoring: Regularly inspect citrus trees for the presence of scab lesions or signs of infection. Early detection
allows for timely intervention and effective management.

Integrated Pest Management: Adopt an integrated approach that combines multiple strategies for disease management.
This includes cultural practices, chemical control, biological control, and host resistance. Integrated Pest Management
(IPM) techniques aim to minimize the use of chemicals while optimizing the effectiveness of control measures.

It is important to note that management practices may vary depending on the region, citrus species, and specific
conditions. Local agricultural extension services, citrus experts, or plant pathologists can provide specific
recommendations tailored to your location and circumstances. Following their guidance will help develop an effective
management plan for scab of citrus disease.
THANK
YOU