General Conclusion

Abstract

Basal stem rot (BSR) disease of oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) caused by Ganoderma spp is one of the most devastating oil palm diseases in South East Asia. This disease shortens the productive life of oil palm and causes serious economic losses to the industry. Detection of BSR is challenging due to late appearance of symptoms until the advanced stage of the disease. To date, many detection methods have been developed for BSR, which includes biochemical assays, high-throughput device system for field application and advanced molecular technologies for more accurate detection and identification. Numerous management strategies also have been attempted for BSR, such as cultural practices, chemical application and development of resistant genotypes; however, none is reported as completely effective. Application of ‘microbial-cocktails’ provides broad antimicrobial spectrum against Ganoderma is found to be more effective, cheap and eco-friendly.