About Cocoa
Diseases That Threaten Cocoa
Black Pod disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the trees. In Côte d’Ivoire, it’s estimated that 30% of their cocoa is lost because of Black Pod disease every year
Cocoa trees are vulnerable to pests and diseases that can seriously affect the crop, or even wipe it out entirely.
Black Pod disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the trees, particularly the pods, causing brown patches that gradually cover the surface, before spreading to the inside of the fruit. For example, in Côte d’Ivoire, it’s estimated that up to 30% of their cocoa is lost because of Black Pod disease every year.
Witches' Broom is also caused by a fungus, but this fungus attacks not only the pods, but also the floral cushions and buds. Affected trees no longer produce proper pods, and shoots grow to look like "witches' brooms”.
Frosty Pod Rot
Cocoa pods infected with frosty pod rot disease
Frosty Pod Rot is an invasive disease caused by a fungus first identified in Ecuador in 1917. It has since rapidly spread to other countries throughout Latin America with the exception of Brazil. Frosty Pod is more destructive than Black Pod and more virulent than Witches’ Broom. Infested plantations can suffer dramatic yield losses, leading in some cases to complete destruction of the crop.
Vascular Streak Dieback
Vascular Streak Dieback is another devastating disease caused by a fungus which is limited to South-East Asia. The pathogen, the organism that spreads the disease, spreads internally and usually ultimately kills the tree.
Cocoa Pod Borer
Cocoa Pod Borer is the most damaging cocoa insect pest and is also found in parts of Asia. Pod Borer moths lay eggs on the surface of the cocoa pods. Larvae drill into the pod and feed on the pulp of developing cocoa beans, significantly reducing both the quality and quantity of the beans.
