Survey on Soil-borne Fungal Diseases in Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) in Telangana State, India

Abstract

Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) is an important spice crop widely cultivated in Telangana; however, its production is often affected by several soil-borne fungal diseases. To assess the incidence of these diseases, a roving survey was conducted during Kharif 2025-2026 in five major chilli-growing districts of Telangana, viz., Mahabubabad, Warangal, Khammam, Jayashankar Bhupalpally and Karimnagar, covering 13 mandals and 35 villages. Disease incidence was recorded, and infected plant samples were collected for the isolation and identification of the associated fungal pathogens. The survey showed that Fusarium wilt was the most prevalent soil-borne disease in all the districts surveyed. Among the districts, Khammam recorded the highest mean disease incidence (33.71%), followed by Mahabubabad (22.76%), Jayashankar Bhupalpally (19.72%) and Warangal (17.14%), whereas Karimnagar recorded the lowest incidence (3.74%). Collar rot caused by Sclerotium rolfsii was also observed, but at comparatively low levels. The fungal pathogens isolated from diseased plants included Fusarium spp., Sclerotium rolfsii, Rhizoctonia solani and Macrophomina phaseolina. Variation in disease incidence may be associated with the cultivated varieties, soil type, moisture, temperature, irregular rainfall and continuous chilli monocropping. The findings provide current information on the incidence and distribution of soil-borne fungal diseases in Telangana and highlight the importance of regular disease monitoring.