Status report on taro production (Colocasia esculenta L. Schott) and identification of fungal diseases.

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Résumé

The production of taro (Colocasia esculenta L. Schott) in Benin is struggling to take off, despite its high nutritional value. Taro production faces biotic and abiotic constraints. The acidification of the soil leads to increasingly low yields with a reduction in the size of the tubers. Foliar diseases are major constraints. The objective of this study is to assess the current state of C. esculenta production in South Benin and to identify the major constraints that influence its production. A survey was carried out in three municipalities in southern Benin, representing three departments. Ten producers per municipality were surveyed, for a total of 30 producers. The preparation of the samples, culture medium, and incubation were carried out following phytopathological methods. Macroscopic and microscopic identifications were made using the Barnett and Hunter identification keys. The results of the survey show that taro production takes place in humid areas, with a production system that combines ancient methods and modern practices. Climatic changes, such as irregular rainfall or flooding, disrupt crop cycles. Limited access to financial resources, quality seeds, and agricultural inputs complicates production. The lack of infrastructure for storage and distribution hampers the marketing of crops. The lack of training for farmers in modern and sustainable cultivation techniques reduces production efficiency. Several diseases have been identified with varying symptoms, ranging from necrosis, blistering, chlorosis, and tuber rot. Initiatives must be put in place to promote new sustainable cultivation techniques and strengthen the capacities of farmers.

Mots-clés

Colocasia esculenta, diseases, symptoms, production, South Benin