MANAGING ONION BASAL ROT: BIOLOGICAL PARADIGMS FOR COMBATING FUSARIUM OXYSPORUM F. SP. CEPAE

Abstract

Onion basal rot caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Cepae, is a destructive soil-borne disease that significantly constrains onion production worldwide, leading to considerable yield reductions and post-harvest losses. The continued dependence on chemical fungicides for disease control is increasingly challenged by the emergence of fungicide-resistant pathogen populations, environmental concerns and stringent regulatory restrictions. Subsequently, sustainable and environmentally friendly biological paradigms of disease management approaches have gained increasing attention. A comprehensive understanding of the pathogen's etiology, disease cycle, symptomatology and economic impact is essential for developing effective management strategies. Eco-friendly management practices such as biological control agents tri and microbial consortia,  botanical extracts and organic amendments have demonstrated considerable potential in reducing disease incidence while minimizing environmental risks.  Natural plant defense mechanisms, including structural barriers, phenolic compounds, defense-related enzymes and induced systemic resistance, play a crucial role in suppressing disease development. Recent advances in disease management, including nanobiotechnology, RNA-based biocontrol technologies further enhance the prospects for sustainable disease suppression. Although individual organic approaches may exhibit certain limitations, their integration provides an effective and sustainable alternative to conventional fungicide-based management. Greater emphasis on location-specific integrated strategies and continued research is required to improve the efficacy, adoption, and long-term sustainability of these practices. Such approaches offer promising opportunities for the development of environmentally and economically viable solutions for managing onion basal rot.