Performance evaluation of some chili pepper (Capsicum spp) genotypes for anthracnose (Colletotrichum capsici (SYD)) resistance in snnp region of Ethiopia

Abstract

Ten chili (Capsicum spp) varieties were screened for resistance to anthracnose (Colletotrichum capsici) in field experiments at two locations, Alaba and Maraqo. Starting seven days after transplanting, plants in each plot were monitored for diseases symptoms and infections. Data on incidence and severity of anthracnose were collected. Besides, the disease progress curve (AUDPC) and yield components were recorded before and after harvest. The data showed that the incidence of anthracnose disease and yield parameters such as dry fruit weight per plant, number of fruit per plant, pulp weight per plant, unmarketable fruits weight per plant, fruit length and days to 50 percent maturity, differed significantly among the tested genotypes at both locations. The majority of the genotypes were rated as moderate resistant to susceptible ones and none of the genotypes was free from the disease at both locations. Total yield per plant was higher at Alaba than Maraqo. This variation is related to the level of disease intensity, which was higher at Maraqo. After thorough multi-location researches, the identified sources of resistance were recommended to be utilized in future pepper breeding programs.

Key words/phrases: AUDPC, Fruit weight, Resistance, Screening, Yield.