The first report of Colletotrichum nymphaeae associated with anthracnose disease of Malayan apple

The Malayan apple is a tropical fruit known by various names, such as red guava and Malay rose apple. Originating in Southeast Asia, it has shifted from being an ornamental tree to being cultivated in India to meet global demand. Well-known for its health benefits, the fruit is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In May 2023, Malayan apple trees in Karnataka, India, displayed anthracnose symptoms, with a 20–25% disease incidence. The fungus C. nymphaeae was isolated, identified, and confirmed through multigene phylogeny. Its pathogenicity was validated by artificially infecting Malayan fruits, causing anthracnose symptoms and fulfilling Koch’s postulates. This represents the initial documented occurrence of C. nymphaeae causing anthracnose in the Malayan apple in India and the world, emphasizing the significance of this research in disease management.