Project Title: Detection, characterization, and race identification of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense, and the response of selected abaca accessions to the causal organism of abaca wilt

Project Leader: Jayson C. Asunto

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Executive Summary:

The Philippines, the leading abaca fiber producer, faces a formidable threat from the destructive Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense, which endangers the sustainability of the abaca industry. In response, the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) initiates a study entitled "Detection, characterization and race identification of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense, and the response of selected abaca accessions to the causal organism of Abaca wilt". This research aims to evaluate selected abaca accessions for resistance to Foc and elucidate and functionally analyse genetic responses of the crop to Foc infection which can be used for the development of reliable Foc detection and characterization tools.  Understanding the genetic underpinnings of resistance and the development of a practical disease detection method is pivotal for the abaca fiber crop industry's survival. The study employs biotechnology, genetics, and genomics to elucidate the molecular mechanisms governing abaca's response to Foc, offering essential solutions for the management and detection of this devastating pathogen.