Geographical distribution of emerging cacao mosaic disease caused by cacao mild mosaic virus (Badnavirus tesellotheobromae) in Indonesia

Abstract

Indonesia is the third largest cocoa producer in the world with annual export value of more than 1.2 million USD. However, cacao production in Indonesia has decreased by approximately 50% in the last decade due to socioeconomic issues and the high prevalence of pests and diseases. Cacao mosaic disease caused by cacao mild mosaic virus (Badnavirus teselotheobromae, CMMV) is currently emerging in Indonesia. This study aims to map the distribution of CMMV in cacao‐growing areas in Indonesia. Samples were collected in 2021–2023 in Java, Sumatera, Bali, and Sulawesi, which represent major cacao‐growing areas in Indonesia. We successfully detected CMMV from all samples, indicating CMMV is already distributed widely in Indonesia. Sequencing data suggests the Indonesian isolates have a common ancestor with American isolates. These findings provide new information for the quarantine board, government, and industry to arrange the policy to control the emerging CMMV.