Brown Rot Disease Caused by Fungal Pathogens Monilinia spp.: A Serious Threat to Pome and Stone Fruit Production Worldwide and Current Threat in Morocco

Monilinia spp. is a fungal plant pathogen responsible for significant losses in stone and pome fruit production globally, particularly during storage. Various control methods are employed to prevent or delay the onset of brown rot disease. These strategies include sanitation practices to manage factors affecting fruit physiology and health, and measures to limit mechanical injuries, which are primary sources of fungal invasion. While synthetic fungicides remain the most effective and cost-efficient method, their frequent use has led to issues such as the emergence of resistant fungal strains and adverse effects on the environment and human health. Additionally, some effective fungicides have been progressively banned or restricted. Therefore, numerous global programs have explored alternative methods for controlling fruit decay over the past decades. This literature review focuses on the pathogens M. fructigena and M. laxa and presents various alternative strategies for managing brown rot caused by these fungi.