LEAF BLIGHT

This study was carried out to examine the fungi associated with the leaf blight of Ochroma pyramidale trees. The diseased leaves of Ochroma pyramidale were obtained from the Department of Forest Resources and Wildlife Management Arboretum, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Benin, Ugbowo Campus, Benin City. Isolation, sub-culturing, identification of isolates were carried out. The medium used was Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA). Identification of isolates under the light microscope was carried out. The symptoms observed on the leaves were darkish brown to black lesions that spread around the edges of the leaves and progressed into the lamina. Two fungi were found to be associated with the leaf blight of Ochroma pyramidale. These are Sclerotium rolfsii and Penicillium sp. More research work should be embarked upon to ascertain the pathogen of the disease and how to effectively control and prevent its development.