What was it all about?

This project sought to develop a greater understanding of the factors that contribute to crown end rot (CER), which has re-emerged as an important problem in the banana supply chain.

The research sought to better understand the disease, improve pre- and post-harvest disease control, and provide growers with information that will result in reduced losses due to CER.

Key findings from the work included:

• The two pathogens most frequently associated with CER were identified as Musicillium theobromaeand Fusarium (Fusarium equiseti-incarnatum complex), both of which widely distributed in North Queensland banana growing environments all year round
• Post-harvest treatments were developed
• Fungicide efficacy testing identified alternative products that can hamper the growth of CER-causing organisms
• Longer duration of storage prior to ripening was found to have an increased effect on the severity of CER
• A draft management practice framework for CER was developed
• Key supply chain partners were engaged to implement post-harvest management options and assess against current practices.