Cacao trees are considered vital tropical crops with great global economic importance, yet their productivity may face serious pathological threats, most notably witches' broom syndrome, which is one of the destructive pests of the crop. This disease results from a fungal pathogen attacking tender plant tissues, leading to the appearance of dense and abnormal branch branching resembling a broom shape, accompanied by swelling and deformation of plant tissues and cacao fruits, destroying their marketing and production value. Agricultural studies and applied plant pathology research indicate that infection leads to severe losses if field monitoring is neglected; therefore, integrated control strategies rely on continuous pruning and safe disposal of infected parts by burning or burying them to prevent the spread of fungal spores. In addition, reports issued by international agricultural organizations confirm that relying on the cultivation of resistant and approved varieties and controlling environmental conditions reduces infection severity by high percentages, ensuring crop protection and sustainable agricultural production quality over the long term.
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) international reports on tropical crop diseases. Plant protection studies in the field of combating fungal diseases of cacao trees. General information from the Agricultural and Livestock Guide in Syria - Specialized Evidence Center.
