Abiotic resistance inducers for control of pineapple fusariosis

Abstract

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of abiotic resistance inducers on the control of pineapple fusariosis (Fusarium guttiforme) in the pre‑harvest period, in an area with natural occurrence of the disease in the field, and to check for any physicochemical and biochemical changes in the fruits. The products tested were potassium phosphite, calcium phosphite, copper phosphite, Agro‑Mos, calcium silicate, Biopirol, and Bion sprayed on the field, at the dosages recommended by the manufacturers. Potassium phosphite, Biopirol, and copper phosphite were the most effective in reducing the incidence of pineapple fusariosis in the field, with 91.67%, 70.01%, and 67.68% of control, respectively. The physicochemical analyses showed that the treatments did not promote change in pH, total soluble solids, and total acidity of fruits, while, in biochemical analyses, only β‑1,3‑glucanase showed lower expression compared with the control (sterilized distilled water), except for the treatment with potassium phosphite. Therefore, foliar fertilization with potassium phosphite and copper phosphite, as well as the treatment with Biopirol, may aid in the control of pineapple fusariosis.