Fungal pathogens associated with Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa)

A study was carried out on fungi isolated from Roselle plants bearing disease symptoms. A total of 90 diseased samples were collected and 200 fungi isolates were obtained from the leaves, fruits and petioles. The isolates were classified into four species based on their cultural and morphological characteristics, growth rate and pathogenicity test on Roselle seedlings. The potential of Trichoderma viride as a bio control agent was evaluated in vitro against pathogens using the dual culture technique. Volatile and non-volatile inhibitors of Trichoderma were also evaluated for this purpose. Crude extracts of nine plants were made using cold water and hot water and tested for their anti-fungal effects using the 'poisoned agar technique'.