Branch canker battles: understanding and managing the Botryosphaeriaceae in avocado

Avocado holds an important position in global agriculture and economic development. However, this thriving industry faces significant challenges from fungal pathogens, particularly those in the Botryosphaeriaceae. These fungi have emerged as major pathogens across various hosts, causing branch cankers, dieback, and fruit rots in avocados. These diseases reduce fruit quality and lead to substantial yield losses, threatening the profitability and sustainability of avocado production. This review consolidates current knowledge on Botryosphaeriaceae species affecting avocados, with a focus on their diversity, disease dynamics, detection methods, management strategies, and recent omics advances related to species reported in avocados. Given the escalating global production and economic importance of avocados, understanding, and effectively managing Botryosphaeriaceae infections is crucial. The review aims to identify research gaps and propose future research avenues to enhance disease management practices in avocado cultivation.