Colombia strengthens defense against TR4 to protect banana industry

Colombia is grappling with the Tropical Race 4 (TR4) fungal disease, which endangers its banana exports. This Fusarium-induced disease, initially detected in Asia in the 1990s, arrived in Colombia in 2019, now affecting every major banana-producing region globally. Although incurable, preventative measures like cement paths, disinfection stations, and production adjustments are in place, yielding a projected return of $3–4 for every dollar invested.

Researchers from the Alliance Bioversity International and CIAT advocate for these cost-effective strategies, as emphasized by Alliance researcher Thea Ritter, who stresses the financial gains and simplicity of these interventions. TR4 poses a risk to the Cavendish banana variety, a mainstay in the global market, and could affect other crops, highlighting the need for robust management practices.

Colombia’s government, industry, and farmer cooperatives are working together to curb TR4 through enhanced biosecurity measures, yet challenges persist in gaining full policy support and adequate funding. TR4’s impact extends beyond agriculture, threatening livelihoods, especially in smaller farming regions like Magdalena. This situation highlights the importance of national and local research, as well as overcoming the stigma that hinders reporting the disease. A united approach is essential to safeguard Colombia’s agricultural sector and the cultural heritage rooted in banana farming.

source: eurekalert.org

photo: science.org