Prevalence of Seed-borne Fungal Invasion on Tossa Jute (<i>Corchorus olitorius</i>) Seeds

Abstract

Fungi of different kinds/races have been observed on Tossa jute seeds collected from different locations in Bangladesh. These fungi harm the quality of seeds and lessen germination percentage of the seeds. The aim of this research was to determine the seed-borne fungal pathogens on Tossa jute varieties collected from different locations in Bangladesh. The experiments were conducted following Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with four replications. Eight Tossa jute varieties are used in the present research. Seed sample of each and every variety collected from each of four different districts of Bangladesh. The predominant identified fungi were Macrophomina phaseolina, Botryodiplodia theobromae, Aspergillus spp., Fusarium spp. and Penicillum spp. Kishoregonj District as well as O-72 variety is the most vulnerable in response of seed borne fungal infection, individually and simultaneously. Rangpur District as well as O-795 variety is the most secure in response of seed borne fungal infection, individually and simultaneously. No limitation has been found to conduct the experiment. Seed borne fungal pathogens are the extreme constraints which deadly influenced the healthy Tossa jute seed production. From the results obtained from this study, it will be easy to select the right variety and location for Tossa jute seed production in Bangladesh. And Farmers can be careful at the beginning of Tossa jute seed cultivation to get rid of the fungus which is more prevalent.