ECO-FRIENDLY MANAGEMENT OF ANTHRACNOSE DISEASE IN PAPAYA

Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is an economical important fruit crop in tropical and sub-tropical countries. Anthracnose is one of post-harvest disease of papaya caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. It is causing in major economic losses during transportation as well as storage. Study was carried to assess anthracnose disease incidence and severity in selected markets in JaffnaSri Lanka assess different botanicals against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and For in-vivo analysis for selected bio rationales alone and combined with wax was evaluated by topical application of selected combination. Weight loss percentage total soluble solids pH disease severity and incidence were observed. Ocimum basilicum arrested the growth of anthracnose significantly compare to control in in-vitro and in-vivoOcimum basilicum treated papaya fruit’s both disease severity and incidence zero.In-vivo studies are in progress for the use of bio rationales as an alternative to chemical pesticides; bee wax is one of the alternative source of bio preservative.