Evaluación de fungicidas biológicos en el manejo de pudriciones en mazorcas de cacao (Theobroma cacao L.)

Abstract

Cacao cultivation is a fundamental economic activity for small and medium-sized producers; however, its productivity is affected by diseases such as moniliasis (Moniliophthora roreri) and black pod rot (Phytophthora spp.), which can cause losses exceeding 40%. Faced with the problems associated with the continuous use of chemical fungicides, such as pathogen resistance, environmental contamination, and high costs, the use of sustainable biological alternatives was proposed. This research evaluated the efficacy of biological fungicides in managing pod rot in the Simón Bolívar region, Guayas province, Ecuador. The study was conducted using a randomized complete block design with seven treatments and three replicates, evaluating products based on Bacillus subtilis, Trichoderma harzianum, and Pseudomonas fluorescens, as well as a control group. Variables such as pod index, seed index, yield per hectare, incidence, severity, damage (using a scale), and economic analysis were analyzed.

The results showed statistically significant differences between treatments. Bacillus subtilis at 400 ml/ha stood out with the highest yield (1488.12 kg/ha) and least damage in final evaluations, as well as the highest economic return ($2877.57/ha). All biocontrol agents significantly outperformed the control, reducing severity and increasing yield, bean quality, and profitability. It is concluded that biological fungicides represent an effective and sustainable alternative for managing pod rot in cacao, contributing to improved productivity and reduced environmental impact in cacao production systems.