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Goodbye to bananas? The species is endangered

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“Panama disease”, a pathogenic fungus resistant to fungicides, has managed to spread throughout South Asia, Africa, Australia and the Middle East.

conservation

Known as “Panama disease”, this fungicide-resistant pathogenic fungus has spread to South Asia, Africa, Australia and the Middle East; to endanger Cavendish bananas.

Unfortunately, 82% of this species of banana is cultivated in these affected regions, however, it is considered highly possible that it is already scattered throughout South America.

In the 60s this fungus nearly led to the extinction of the Gros Michel banana. Its expansion is highly efficient, with devastating consequences. It is transmitted by soil or water and can remain inactive for up to 30 years and there are no signs to indicate to farmers that their crops have been infected during that time.

Once the fungus has attached itself to the host, it seeks out its root system and travels through the main water transporter of plants to alter the vascular system of the plant, which as a consequence quickly withers and dies due to dehydration.

The researchers claim that the bananas They will not disappear immediately, but there are circumstances to expect that banana plantations are highly affected by this pathogen. Therefore, one of their priorities is the development of a test that allows them to make timely diagnoses of infected crops and in border quarantines.

At the same time, the possibility of replacing the Cavendish species with a new species developed by crossing seeds has been put on the table. In this way, it is expected that the people who depend on the cultivation of bananas for their economic or food subsistence will not suffer terrible losses.

Like the banana, other crops are threatened by pests and by change in ecosystems. Although coffee is affected by Rust, and plantings of coffee whole are lost every year; other plantations such as tobacco are in danger due to the reduction in the population of pollinating bees. The challenge of organic agriculture It is to get ahead without genetically altering plants, or the ecosystems in which they develop.

Evolution certainly cannot work in favor of all species. Some living beings are stronger than others and with this example we can realize that we live in a web of life and that human beings are not always the cause of environmental problems.

COLLABORATION OF EARTHGONOMIC MÉXICO, AC Our mission is to promote the development of society in harmony with the natural environment and respect for living beings.

Frequently asked questions from our readers:

Measures to conserve the endangered banana species include implementing conservation programs in their natural habitats, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, disease and pest control, and genetic diversification of plantations. In addition, it is important to promote awareness and education about the importance of the conservation of this species and promote the responsible consumption of bananas. Read more here: https://www.equilibriumx.com/ecoturismo-y-conservacion/adios-a-los-platanos-epecie-en-peligro
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Last modified: March 21, 2024