The Anecdotal Use of Fungicides in the Management of Cowpea Bacterial Blight Xanthomonas Axonopodis pv. Vignicola

Abstract: The control measure of most seed-borne diseases can be improved by seed treatment with an antibiotic or fungicides.However, the unwittingly use of fungicides on any perceived disease, makes their use economically risky proposition. The objective of this research was to investigate the effectiveness of some fungicides in the management of Xanthomonasaxonopodispvvignicola, the incitant of bacterial blight of cowpea. Seven cowpea genotypes (Ife-brown, SAMPEA-7, Local Wusasa, Local Sabon-Gari, Local Samaru, IT86D-714A and IT98-503-1) were obtained from seed companies, research institutes, and open markets within Zaria area. The different fungicides used by the seed companies were Apron-star, Dress and Team and the same were used to treat other seed lots. Seeds were inoculated by soaking hundred seeds in 100 ml of bacteria suspension adjusted ca.4.7 x 10⁷cfu/ml for 4 h before fungicide treatment.There was general reflection of susceptibility of SAMPEA-7 to Xav as observed in the various parts of all the seedlings (Root, cotyledon, stem and leaf). Fungicides used in the seed treatment did not have significant effect on the pathogen attached to the seeds. Most fungicides do not control bacterial pathogens and most will not control all types of fungal diseases. Anecdotal use of chemical pesticides should be discouraged and farmers are advised to seek for proper diagnosis of pest problems as well as appropriate protection products from plant protectionists. Without proper identification of disease and the disease causing agent, disease control measure can be a waste of time and money and can lead to further plant losses.