Monitoring and Early Detection of the Effects of Temperature Stress on Date Palm Root Rot Disease

Abstract

Date palms are important crop in arid and semi-arid regions because they provide food, income, and cultural significance. However, their cultivation is threatened by diseases such as root rot caused by various fungi. Climate change increases temperature stress, which worsens the severity of root rot. To predict the effects of temperature stress on date palm root rot, modeling techniques are used to simulate the complex relationships between temperature, fungal pathogens, and date palm health. These models enable the prediction of disease outbreaks under different climate scenarios. This study used meteorological data from the National Center for Environmental Information from 1988 to 2019. By analyzing the average air temperature and the severity of pathogenic fungi that cause root rot in date palms, the relationship between these variables was determined. The study took place at Kharga Oasis in New Valley governorate, where average temperatures over 32 years were observed. The influence of temperature stress on date palm root rot depends on factors such as date palm variety, fungal species, and other environmental factors. By integrating temperature monitoring, predictive modeling, and a deep understanding of the correlation between root rot and temperature, an efficient forecasting system can be established. To effectively control date palm root rot, integrated management strategies that include cultural practices, fungicides, and the use of resistant varieties are likely to achieve the best results. This comprehensive approach addresses the various factors that contribute to date palm root rot, promoting sustainability, and protecting this important crop from the threats it faces.