Many high-value fruit plantations are grappling with the issue of fungicide overuse, which has led to the development of fungicide-resistant bacteria over time. As a result, these plants are now struggling to combat diseases effectively.

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A major concern is the Cavendish banana, a predominant international food source that relies on a single species. This dependence puts bananas at significant risk of widespread population decline in the event of disease outbreaks due to the loss of natural immunity.

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Key Facts About Fusarium Wilt (Panama Disease)

In the 1950s, a virulent strain of Fusarium Wilt (Panama Disease) devastated banana plantations across Central and South America, nearly causing the extinction of this prized fruit despite extensive efforts to combat it.

In the 1990s, a new strain of the Fusarium fungus emerged in Taiwan and began spreading to Southeast Asia, including China, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines, as well as northern Australia.

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The Cavendish banana, a key variety, has already lost thousands of hectares to this disease, and many more will be at risk if effective measures are not taken to halt the spread of Fusarium Wilt.