Current Status of Dragon Fruit Diseases in Sangola Tehsil

Abstract

Dragon fruit (Hylocereus sp.) is a tropical fruit with a unique appearance, crunchy texture and sweet taste. It has become increasingly popular across the Sangola Tahsil as an alternative crop to pomegranate due to its claimed health benefits and commercial value. It is rich in antioxidants like Betalains, Hydroxycinnamates, Flavonoids which may reduce issues from heart problems to cancer. Four varieties are widely planted such as white, red-flesh, Jumbo red and yellow varieties. Dragon fruit production area is about 75 acres. Now a day, dragon fruit growers facing significant challenges due to different diseases and insect pests which impacts on fruit yield production and profitability. This paper provides a comprehensive review of dragon fruit diseases in the study area and their current management options. Correct identification of the causal pathogen is a prerequisite for and effective disease management strategies. We conclude that insect pest attacks, sunburns and fungal reported diseases of dragon fruit and actions are needed to address the growing problems associated with these diseases as no disease management strategies for Dragon fruit diseases has been studied, published and yet to be identified..