Unveiling Intricacies of Mango Malformation Dynamics Caused by Fusarium solani Through Extensive Field Surveys and Laboratory, Epidemiology, and Model-Based Insights

Mango malformation is a significant century-old disease causing economic losses for mango growers worldwide. The etiology of the disease is complex, but mainly caused by Fusarium sp. A survey of the core area of mango orchards in the Multan district of Pakistan identified the highest intensity of the disease in the northern zone. Selective media-based isolation revealed the association of Fusarium sp. with the diseased tissues. Chemical-based fungicides, including Score and Topsin‑M, were found to be effective in inhibiting the growth of Fusarium sp. Treatment with fungicide (100 ppm) was found to be the best with percent decrease in fungal growth. Topsin‑M was best with 98% colonial reduction, followed by Score with 97%, and Bavistin with 95% regarding fungal growth reduction over control. An epidemiological study was conducted to develop a symmetrically stepped regression model for forecasting the progression of mango malformation and to design a management strategy based on meteorological variables. Correlation on each plane presented the significant effect of minimum temperature, relative humidity at evening, rainfall durations, speed of wind and sunlight hours on the disease progress in orchards, while maximum temperature persisted as non-responsive (p