Prevalence of Loranthaceae on fruit trees in cocoa agroforestry systems in Daloa (Center-West, Côte d’Ivoire): diversity and extent of infestation

Floristic inventories carried out in cocoa agroforestry systems in the peri-urban zone of Daloa identified three species of Loranthaceae: Phragmanthera capitata, Tapinanthus bangwensis and T. globiferus. These parasites affect a diversity of 60 fruit species, divided into 44 genera and 25 botanical families. T. bangwensis proved to be the most frequent and most infective species. The most heavily parasitized families were the Rutaceae (seven species), followed by the Anacardiaceae, Annonaceae and Myrtaceae (six species each). The density of fruit trees in cocoa plantations is estimated at 44.25 ± 13.86 stems/ha. The average incidence of Loranthaceae was 66 ± 7.07% on fruit trees and 40.07 ± 6.93% on cocoa trees. The average severity of infestation was 34.03 ± 8.07% on fruit trees and 33.89 ± 7.29% on cocoa trees. The results revealed that the diameter and height of fruit trees significantly influence their level of infestation by these parasites. They also help to guide the choice of less susceptible fruit species, with a view to promoting sustainable cocoa agroforestry.