Pepper and tomato: The pathogen would dictate the action plan

Multidisciplinary team of Experts are already reacting to reports from producers of chili peppers and tomatoeswho discovered a problem in their crops.

Edgardo Valdespino, deputy director of plant health at the Ministry of Agricultural Development, said response times and tests will depend on the cause of the problem, whether it’s insects or microorganisms.

“With insects, the tests are faster because they are large and we can see them with the help of a magnifying glass, but when it comes to bacteria or viruses, it is necessary to prepare culture media to see the structures of the pathogen and carry out identification,” commented Valdespino for the state channel.

Management, if diseases or pests are detected in said crops, will involve several factors.

“The action plan will depend on the pathogen. It can there is a cultural, mechanical or chemical measure that can be applied to control and maintain low pathogen population levels without the producer losing their crops,” he added.

Valdespino emphasized that the cooperation of producers is important because as time passes the problem becomes more and more complex.

On the other hand, the expert emphasized that this food is completely edible because, unlike diseases that affect animals, there are no reports of plant pathogens that can be transmitted to humans.

However, the impact will be reflected in the size and shape, which will affect the manufacturer’s sales and return on investment.

Reports are presented only in some sectors of the province of Chiriquí.

We cannot speak in general terms. you have to put warnings if there is something suspicious. It’s ideal to have integrated management to keep pests at bay,” he said.