Status of Ganoderma in oil palm.

Abstract

This chapter discusses the geographical distribution of basal stem rot (BSR; caused by Ganoderma spp.) of oil palm (Elaeis guineensis), the symptoms of BSR disease, economic importance, epidemiology (mycelium contact and Ganoderma basidiospores), predisposition factors associated with BSR disease (e.g. age of oil palm, previous crops, soil type, nutrient status and planting technique), early detection of BSR, and management strategies for BSR (including cultural, chemical and biological control).