First report of the natural infection of Cephaleuros virescens causing algal spot on avocado leaves in the Philippines

Abstract

The avocado Persea americana is an important tropical fruit that is a good source of vitamins and minerals, as well as fatty acids and lipids. It is also an important fruit tree for growers as a source of livelihood. In April 2024, severe infections of algal spot characterized by circular, orange to brown spots were observed on the leaves of avocado plants grown in Guagua, Pampanga, Philippines. Based on morphology, the pathogen associated with the algal spot was identified as Cephaleuros virescens. This is the first confirmed record of C. virescens on avocado leaves in the Philippines.