Vegetative compatibility and distribution of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cubense in Australia

Abstract

Isolates of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense from wilted banana plants in Queensland and New South Wales were characterised for vegetative compatibility. Six vegetative compatibility groups VCGs) were identified. Race 1 (VCGs 0124, 01241.5, 0125) was widespread, being detected in northern and southern Queensland as well as northern New South Wales. Race 2 (VCG 0128) was found attacking Bluggoe in North Queensland. Race 4 (VCGs 0120, 0129, 01211) was detected in Cavendish plantations in southern Queensland and in Lady finger plantations in New (South Wales and southern Queensland. Isolates of the race 4 VCG 0129 from Lady finger plantations were pathogenic to Cavendish cultivars in glasshouse tests.