Effects of genotype and intercropping with Chinese chives (Allium tuberosum) on Fusarium wilt tropical race 4 in banana

Fusarium wilt is one of the major threats faced by the banana industry in Malaysia. The causal pathogen is a soil-borne fungus, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense which is able to remain active in the soil for a long time. An integrated strategy is needed to battle this disease. A combined approach of screening local banana cultivars and intercropping with Chinese chives (Allium tuberosum) was tested. Three genotypes, i.e., 'Grande Naine' (AAA genome, Cavendish subgroup), 'Berangan Intan' (AAA genome) and 'Lemak Manis' (AA genome) were evaluated in a Fusarium hot-spot area. The 'Lemak Manis' cultivar survived with two cycles of ratoon harvested, whereas somaclonal variant of 'Berangan Intan' was successfully screened and selected for second round of microprogation via tissue culture technique. Intercropping with Chinese chives was not found to contribute to controlling the disease when intercropped with 'Berangan Intan' and 'Lemak Manis' but was able to suppress the disease when intercropped with 'Grande Naine'.