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Description
Anthracnose is one of the main fungal diseases affecting olive trees (Olea europaea L.). It is caused by different species of fungi belonging to the genus Colletotrichum, in particular Colletotrichum acutatum and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. This disease, aggravated by the effects of climate change, has a significant impact on the production and profitability of the olive oil sector worldwide and particularly in Morocco. It is widespread in Mediterranean regions, where it can cause considerable economic losses by causing premature fruit drop, a decrease in oil yield, and a deterioration in its quality. A humid and temperate climate contributes to the development of the disease, as well as poor cultural practices, such as excessive watering or poor ventilation of orchards. Faced with this threat, different control strategies are implemented. Chemical control relies on the application of copper-based fungicides or systemic molecules, but their effectiveness can be limited, and their use must be regulated to prevent the emergence of resistance. Recent research is moving towards sustainable alternatives, such as biological control using antagonistic microorganisms and the selection of olive varieties that are more tolerant to the disease. This work aims to synthesize current knowledge on the pathogens responsible for olive anthracnose and available control methods, with a focus on integrated and sustainable approaches for effective management of this disease in the context of climate change.
