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REVIEW article

Front. Microbiol., 10 October 2025

Sec. Food Microbiology

Volume 16 - 2025 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2025.1644061

The dark side of avocados: a review of anthracnose and stem-end rot in postharvest fruit

  • 1Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
  • 2Plant Pathology Laboratory, School of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Alson H. Smith Jr. Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Winchester, VA, United States

Avocados are a key global fruit crop with rising international demand. However, postharvest diseases like anthracnose and stem-end rot (SER) can lead to significant economic losses, with incidence rates surpassing 30% in some regions. The latent nature of these infections complicates detection and management, affecting fruit quality and marketability. This review examines the pathogens behind these diseases, highlights advancements in detection technologies such as the use of biochemical and non-destructive methods and explores host-pathogen interactions through emerging omics approaches. We also evaluate the impact of preharvest practices on disease outcomes and current management strategies, including the growing potential of biological control agents, systemic resistance inducers, and natural product-based formulations as sustainable tools that complement synthetic fungicides. Finally, we highlight implications for fruit quality and consumer perception, along with critical research gaps, particularly the imbalance between anthracnose and SER studies in avocados, and outline future directions for improving postharvest disease control in avocados.

1 Introduction

The avocado (Persea americana Mill.), a key player in the global agricultural economy, was valued at $15.83 billion in 2023, projected to reach $26.04 billion by 2030 (Avocado Market Size and Outlook, 2023). Mexico leads production with contributions from Colombia, the Dominican Republic, and Peru (FAO, 2024). In the U.S., “Hass” avocados dominate, comprising 95% of the market with per capita consumption averaging 8.43 pounds annually (World Population Review, 2025). The cultivar’s success stems from its hybrid origins, combining the Mexican race’s cold tolerance and early maturity with the Guatemalan race’s thick skin for durability and marketability (Schaffer et al., 2013; Hass, 1935).

Preserving avocado marketability depends on maintaining postharvest quality. However, postharvest diseases such as anthracnose (body rot), and stem-end rot (SER) caused by fungi from the Colletotrichum species, and Botryosphaeriaceae family, respectively, cause significant losses (Everett, 2020; Fuentes-Aragón et al., 2018; Korsten, 1997; Rivera et al., 2017; Sonavane and Venkataravanappa, 2022). These pathogens often remain latent, activating during ripening and storage to cause decay, reduce shelf life, and increase commercial rejection rates. For example, Colombian packinghouses reported rejection rates up to 70.1% for SER and 52.5% for anthracnose, leading to substantial economic losses (Ramírez-Gil et al., 2020). Similar losses, up to 40% in Kenya and 60% in untreated Mexican fruit, underscore the severity of these fungal diseases (Shivachi et al., 2023; Herrera-González, 2017). In contrast, comparable data are not currently available for the United States, highlighting a gap in postharvest disease monitoring efforts. Despite advancements, effective and sustainable control remains challenging, emphasizing the need for continued research into pathogen biology and innovative control strategies (Herrera-González et al., 2021).

This review comprehensively examines the biology and distribution of anthracnose and SER pathogens; highlights advance in their detection and explores their interactions with the avocado host via omics approaches. We assess how pre-harvest conditions influence disease outcomes and evaluate current and emerging management strategies. Finally, we consider these infections’ broader implications on fruit quality and consumer perception. By consolidating this research, this review aims to identify key knowledge gaps in avocado postharvest diseases and guide future efforts.

2 Postharvest diseases: anthracnose and stem-end rot

Anthracnose, caused by species in the genus Colletotrichum, and stem-end rot primarily affiliated to fungi within Botryosphaeriaceae family (Akgül et al., 2016; Giblin et al., 2018; Guarnaccia et al., 2016; Twizeyimana et al., 2013a; Valencia et al., 2019), represent major postharvest challenges for avocado production worldwide (Armand and Jayawardena, 2024; Fischer et al., 2019). While both diseases often manifest during fruit ripening and storage due to latent infections established in the field, they exhibit distinct characteristics in terms of causal agents, infection sites, and symptom development. Members of the C. gloeosporioides complex have also been implicated in SER (Everett, 2020; Everett et al., 2018; Galsurker et al., 2018).

Colletotrichum species follow a hemibiotrophic infection cycle, colonizing fruit asymptomatically until ripening triggers a necrotrophic phase (Siddiqui and Ali, 2014). Anthracnose lesions appear as sunken (Figures 1A,D), dark (Figures 1B,C), water-soaked areas that progressively enlarge on the body of the avocado fruit (Figures 1E,F), often becoming covered with pink to orange spore masses under humid conditions (Siddiqui and Ali, 2014). The disease affects avocados both pre- and postharvest, damaging leaves and causing body rot in fruit during storage and market ripening (Dann et al., 2013; Everett and Pak, 2002; Everett, 2020; Freeman et al., 1998). In contrast, in preharvest stages, Botryosphaeriaceae fungi are associated with avocado branch canker, manifesting as sunken, resinous lesions on branches and potentially leading to dieback (Eskalen and McDonald, 2009; Twizeyimana et al., 2013a; Valencia Bernal et al., 2025). Postharvest, SER is initiated at the stem attachment site, with spores reaching the fruit via rain splash, pruning wounds, or insect activity, establishing latent infections (Eskalen et al., 2013). Affected fruits initially exhibit surface discoloration (Figure 1G), shriveling around the stem base, and softening (Karunanayake and Adikaram, 2020; Möller et al., 2025). In some cases, fungal mycelium becomes visible at the stem scar. Advanced SER leads to water-soaked lesions, tissue breakdown, and a sharp internal boundary between healthy and decayed zones (Figures 1HL) (Fostvedt et al., 2024).

Figure 1
Avocado images show symptoms of two types of rot: anthracnose and stem-end rot. The anthracnose section (A-F) displays avocados with dark spots and decayed areas, both externally and internally. The stem-end rot section (G-L) features avocados with darkening and rot near the stem, visible both on the skin and inside when cut open. Orange arrows point to affected areas. Different researchers' names are labeled below some images.

Figure 1. Symptoms of anthracnose and stem-end rot on avocado fruit. (A–F) Body rot symptoms include sunken lesions (A,D), internal decay (B,C), and cross-sectional views showing lesion development (E,F). (G–L) SER symptoms include discoloration and darkening at the stem-end (G), with internal browning and vascular invasion visible (H–J). Infected vascular strands appear dark brown to black, forming an advancing boundary between healthy and diseased tissue (K,L).

2.1 Taxonomy and distribution

The genus Colletotrichum includes over 250 species grouped into 15 species complexes (Talhinhas and Baroncelli, 2021), distinguished by molecular sequence analyses and morphological aspects (Cannon et al., 2012; Damm et al., 2010, 2012a, 2012b, 2013, 2019). In avocados, anthracnose is primarily associated with the C. gloeosporioides (CGSC) C. acutatum (CASC), and C. boninense (CBSC) species complex (Fischer et al., 2019; Fischer and Firmino, 2023; Fuentes-Aragón et al., 2020; Giblin et al., 2018; Iñiguez-Moreno et al., 2021). Over a dozen Colletotrichum species have been confirmed as causal agents of anthracnose in avocados across multiple countries, including Israel, Kenya, Mexico, Australia, Ghana, and Brazil. These species include C. acutatum, C. aenigma, C. alienum, C. fioriniae, C. fructicola, C. gigasporum, C. gloeosporioides, C. godetiae, C. karstii, C. nupharicola, C. perseae, C. siamense, and C. theobromicola (Dann et al., 2013; Hernández-Lauzardo et al., 2015; Kimaru et al., 2018; Sharma et al., 2017; Velázquez-del Valle et al., 2016). Regional surveys highlight variability in species prevalence shaped by environmental conditions (Dowling et al., 2020; Fuentes-Aragón et al., 2018; Kwon et al., 2020; Silva-Rojas and Ávila-Quezada, 2011; Soares et al., 2021). Thermal preferences of Colletotrichum species complexes (CGSC optimal 26–27°C, tolerant to 38–40°C) (Salotti et al., 2022); CASC optimal 20–22°C (Khodadadi et al., 2023); CBSC intermediate ~25°C (CABI, 2022; Moriwaki et al., 2003) influence their geographic distribution.

The taxonomy of Botryosphaeriaceae has undergone significant revisions (Burgess et al., 2019; Phillips et al., 2013; Slippers et al., 2017), with genus-level classification advanced through morphological and molecular analyses (Liu et al., 2012; Phillips et al., 2019; Slippers et al., 2004). Genera consistently associated with SER include Botryosphaeria, Lasiodiplodia, Diplodia, Neofusicoccum, and Dothiorella (Fostvedt et al., 2024; Galsurker et al., 2018). Lasiodiplodia theobromae is widely reported (Fischer et al., 2019; Llanos and Apaza, 2021; Ochoa and Vázquez, 2006; Ramírez-Gil et al., 2020; Rosado et al., 2016; Valencia et al., 2019; Wanjiku et al., 2020). Other important species include N. luteum (Everett, 2020; McDonald et al., 2009; Twizeyimana et al., 2013a), Diplodia seriata and D. pseudoseriata (Valencia et al., 2019), N. parvum, N. mediterraneum, N. australe, D. mutila, and L. citricola (Aćimović et al., 2018; Chen et al., 2014; McDonald et al., 2009; Moral et al., 2019).

The increasing global incidence of postharvest diseases in avocados and the identification of new pathogenic species underscores the complexity and expanding geographic distribution of species affecting avocado production. Understanding their disease cycle, infection strategies, and detection methods is crucial for developing effective disease management approaches as new species emerge across various regions.

2.2 Disease cycle

The disease cycles of both Colletotrichum and Botryosphaeriaceae responsible for these postharvest rots involve latent infections activated during fruit ripening (Fischer et al., 2019; Prusky et al., 2013). Initial infection by Colletotrichum spp. begins with germ tubes that develop appressoria to penetrate the fruit (Perfect et al., 1999). This is followed by a biotrophic phase until ripening triggers necrotrophy, with secretion of cell wall degrading enzymes (CWDEs) leading to sunken lesions and secondary conidia formation (Everett et al., 2008; Hartill, 1991; Hartill and Everett, 2002; Prusky et al., 2013). Colletotrichum overwinters as conidium or sclerotia in plant debris (Casela and Frederiksen, 1993; Stensvand et al., 2017; Yoshida et al., 2007), with infection beginning at lenticels, wounds, or compromised skin by splash-dispersed conidia germinating under wet conditions and temperatures typically ranging from 10°C to 35°C (Estrada et al., 2000; Everett and Pak, 2002; Everett et al., 2018; Morse and Faber, 2017; Salotti et al., 2022).

Botryosphaeriaceae persist in plant tissues as mycelium, pycnidia, or conidia (Galsurker et al., 2018; Johnson et al., 1992), entering the tree preharvest through natural openings or wounds, with spores dispersed by rain, wind, and insects (Eskalen et al., 2013; Hartill and Everett, 2002; Karunanayake and Adikaram, 2020; Navarro et al., 2022). Inside the fruit, a quiescent biotrophic state transitions to necrotrophy during ripening due to biochemical changes weakening host defenses (Alam et al., 2020; Galsurker et al., 2018; Prusky and Lichter, 2007), exacerbated by high humidity (>90%) and warm temperatures of 20–25°C (Bill et al., 2014; Defilippi et al., 2015). During necrotrophy, CWDEs are also secreted (Defilippi et al., 2018; Nagel et al., 2021a), leading to internal decay from the stem end through the vascular system (Fostvedt et al., 2024; Möller et al., 2025) (Figure 2). Pycnidia forms in necrotic tissue, releasing secondary conidia that serve as inoculum for future infections (Twizeyimana et al., 2013a). The persistence of Botryosphaeriaceae fungi in dead and living branches, infected fruit, and even soil ensures that the disease cycle continues year after year, making early and efficient disease management essential (Llanos and Apaza, 2021).

Figure 2
Diagram of disease progression in fruit trees. In the pre-harvest stage, canker symptoms appear on branches, necrotic branches form, pathogens overwinter on debris, and spores are produced on infected tissue. Conidia spread, infecting fruit, leading to latently infected fruit. In the post-harvest stage, symptoms manifest on ripe fruit, showing disease progression and symptom development. The ripening behavior involves activation of latent infection during storage, affecting market storage conditions.

Figure 2. Disease cycle of stem-end rot in avocado. Pathogens survive in cankers and infected debris, producing conidia that infect fruit preharvest and establish latent infections. Symptoms develop postharvest during ripening and storage. Created in BioRender. Valencia Bernal, V. (2025) https://BioRender.com/bxrcbhq.

3 Detection and diagnosis

Accurate detection of Colletotrichum and Botryosphaeriaceae species is essential for managing postharvest diseases and preserving avocado fruit quality (Alam et al., 2020; Fischer et al., 2019; Karunanayake and Adikaram, 2020). Traditional visual inspection is unreliable due to the pathogens’ quiescent nature (Matsui et al., 2023). This limitation is problematic in “Hass” avocados, where the dark, textured skin obscures early lesion development more than in lighter cultivars such as ‘Fuerte’ and ‘Bacon’ (Bill et al., 2014; Fischer et al., 2019). As a result, undetected infections continue to cause economic losses throughout the supply chain (Ramírez-Gil et al., 2020, 2021).

Various detection methods for Botryosphaeriaceae- and Colletotrichum-induced diseases have also been tested across diverse crops such as mango, kiwifruit, blueberries, citrus, strawberries, olives, apples, and peppers, providing valuable insights that could be integrated into avocado disease monitoring systems (Cabrera Ardila et al., 2020; Clark et al., 2004; Fazari et al., 2021; Jeong et al., 2024; Li et al., 2021; Wang et al., 2021; Wu et al., 2023; Xu et al., 2016; Yang et al., 2022). Furthermore, with the pathogens’ similar infection strategies, there is strong potential to adapt or co-develop methods for dual diagnosis (Fischer et al., 2019).

3.1 Molecular detection methods

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a widely used method for detecting Colletotrichum and Botryosphaeriaceae species. However, due to the genetic similarities, single-locus PCR often lacks the resolution for species-level identification. Multilocus phylogenetic analysis has become standard for resolving closely related taxa, using combinations of housekeeping genes (Table 1) (Phillips et al., 2013, 2019; Vieira et al., 2020).

Table 1
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Table 1. PCR primers used in species delimitation of Colletotrichum and Botryosphaeriaceae fungi.

For anthracnose, PCR targeting the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and β-tubulin (TUB2) regions enables genus-level identification (Chen et al., 2006; Vieira et al., 2020). To distinguish species within Colletotrichum, additional loci such as glutamine synthetase (GS), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), calmodulin (CAL), actin (ACT), chitin synthase (CHS-1), DNA lyase (APN2), mating-type protein (MAT1-2) and L-arabinitol dehydrogenase (ladA) (Khodadadi et al., 2020; McHenry and Aćimović, 2024) are often employed. Specific combinations enhance resolution for species complexes (Khodadadi et al., 2020; Talhinhas and Baroncelli, 2021). For example, the CGSC is best resolved using APN2/MAT-IGS and GAP2-IGS, while CASC species are more accurately distinguished with HIS3, GAPDH, and TUB2 (Khodadadi et al., 2020).

For Botryosphaeriaceae, commonly sequenced loci include ITS, TUB2, and elongation factor-1α (TEF-1α) (Phillips et al., 2013, 2019), mirroring their role in Colletotrichum species differentiation. In avocados, these loci have enabled the first report of species-level detection of Neofusicoccum australe (Akgül et al., 2016), Botryosphaeria dothidea (Qiu et al., 2020), and Diaporthe rudis (Torres et al., 2016). These loci continue to be the standard for species identification within the Botryosphaeriaceae family (Avenot et al., 2023; Valencia Bernal et al., 2025).

Beyond avocado, cross-crop assays offer insight into anthracnose and SER detection. Xu et al. (2016) developed species-specific PCR primers targeting the ITS and TUB2 gene regions, facilitating accurate species identification of Lasiodiplodia theobromae, Botryosphaeria dothidea, and Neofusicoccum parvum found in stem blight samples (Xu et al., 2016). Similarly, Ni et al. (2012) developed a nested multiplex PCR (mPCR) assay for mangoes, enabling simultaneous detection of L. theobromae, N. parvum, N. mangiferae, and Fusicoccum aesculi, at fungal DNA concentrations as low as 100 femtograms to 1 picogram (Ni et al., 2012). In soybeans, Chen et al. (2006) developed a multiplex PCR assay using ITS1/ITS2-based primers to detect C. gloeosporioides and C. truncatum, with amplification at 100 nanograms and no cross-reactivity with non-target DNA, highlighting its specificity and sensitivity (Chen et al., 2006).

Quantitative PCR (qPCR) enhances conventional PCR by providing real-time pathogen DNA detection, crucial for identifying latent infections and supporting early surveillance during both orchard and postharvest storage due to its high sensitivity; qPCR has been instrumental in distinguishing closely related Colletotrichum species within the C. gloeosporioides and C. acutatum complexes (Cao et al., 2023; Garrido et al., 2009). Recent multilocus qPCR assays, combining markers such as ITS, GAPDH, and TUB2, have successfully resolved species-level identities at femtogram DNA concentrations. In apples, bitter rot pathogens were distinguished with a detection limit of 0.5 pg (McHenry and Aćimović, 2024), while ITS-based quantification of C. fructicola in asymptomatic Camellia tissue demonstrated robust sensitivity and specificity (Cao et al., 2023). Similar strategies have proven effective for tracking colonization and resistance responses in infected tissues (Yang et al., 2022), and for identifying quiescent infections in strawberry transplants using both SYBR Green and TaqMan chemistries (Rahman et al., 2019). In olives, assays targeting C. acutatum allowed detection as early as 16 h after inoculation, and an alternative virulence-gene assay (klap1) achieved femtogram-level detection (10.14 fg per reaction) (Azevedo-Nogueira et al., 2021). One of the more innovative developments, a spore-based qPCR for peppers, enabled Colletotrichum identification from a single conidium without requiring DNA extraction, greatly streamlining diagnostic workflow while maintaining accuracy (Jeong et al., 2024). This extraction-free model holds strong promise for anthracnose detection in avocado, particularly in high-throughput or time-sensitive settings.

qPCR advancements have improved SER detection with duplex and triplex TaqMan assays enabling simultaneous detection of N. parvum, B. dothidea, and broader Botryosphaeriaceae groups in various plants and environmental samples (Romero-Cuadrado et al., 2023, 2024). Billones-Baaijens et al. (2018) developed a multispecies qPCR assay targeting the β-tubulin gene to quantify Botryosphaeriaceae inoculum in vineyards. This robust assay detected 10 species with high specificity and sensitivity, proving valuable for diagnostics, spore dispersal modeling, and orchard sanitation (Billones-Baaijens et al., 2018).

The high sensitivity and specificity of PCR and qPCR-based assays make them indispensable tools for early detection and disease monitoring, especially in avocado-exporting regions where preventing latent infections is critical for marketability. While these remain as cornerstones for pathogen detection in laboratory settings, their reliance on specialized equipment has prompted researchers to explore alternative technologies that offer greater accessibility and field applicability.

Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) has emerged as a powerful alternative to conventional PCR and qPCR, for rapid, low-cost and on-site detection of plant pathogens, including those responsible for anthracnose and SER. Operating at a constant temperature (60–65°C), LAMP eliminates the need for thermal cyclers, making it highly suited for in-field diagnostics in orchards or export settings (Law et al., 2015). Although LAMP is not yet widely used for postharvest avocado pathogens, research on other avocado and fruit crop diseases demonstrates its considerable promise (Kamali Dashtarzhaneh et al., 2025).

In mango, a calmodulin-targeted LAMP assay reliably identified members of the Colletotrichum gloeosporioides species complex at DNA concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 10 ng/mL (Hattori et al., 2021). Lan et al. (2020) pushed this sensitivity even further, detecting C. gloeosporioides in guava at just 10 femtograms of DNA, roughly a thousand times more sensitive than standard PCR and confirming its utility for detecting latent infections in asymptomatic fruit (Lan et al., 2020). In soybean, a LAMP assay for C. truncatum detected as little as 100 pg/μL and successfully identified the pathogen in field samples and seed lots containing only 10 conidia per 50 g (Tian et al., 2017). More recently, efforts have improved not just sensitivity, but usability. Cui et al. (2024) developed two assays for C. siamense, one using cresol red for a visible color shift, the other incorporating a fluorescent TaqMan probe for real-time readout. Both reached a detection limit of 50 copies/μL and successfully identified soil inoculum at 104 CFU/g (Cui et al., 2024). In strawberries, Wu et al. (2019) demonstrated how LAMP could be adapted to monitor fungicide resistance. Their assay simultaneously detected C. gloeosporioides and its G143A resistance mutation with just 10 pg of DNA, and by pairing the assay with a lateral flow device, they completed field detection within an hour, no lab required (Wu et al., 2019).

While most existing assays target anthracnose pathogens, efforts to adapt the technology for SER pathogens are growing. Wang et al. (2021) developed an assay for Botryosphaeria dothidea in kiwifruit that matched qPCR in sensitivity, reaching 10 picograms. In avocado, Madhu et al. (2025) created a tef1-α-based assay for Lasiodiplodia pseudotheobromae, capable of distinguishing it from closely related species and detecting infections down to 25 pg of DNA. King et al. (2024) took it a step further with a genus-level Lasiodiplodia assay, validated not only in culture but also in drone-captured air samples, detecting as little as 6.25 pg of DNA and demonstrating LAMP’s potential for environmental monitoring.

However, LAMP does come with its setbacks and limitations. Primer design is technically demanding, requiring 4–6 primers that must bind with high precision to 6–8 distinct target sites. Even minor mismatches can result in non-specific amplification or false positives, particularly under field conditions with inconsistent sample quality (Rolando et al., 2020). Visual detection formats, like color changes in dye-based assays, can be difficult to interpret under inconsistent lighting or with colored or cloudy plant extracts (Garg et al., 2022). Ultimately, while LAMP offers considerable benefits in speed and portability, its successful application hinges on rigorous assay validation, appropriate user training, and careful interpretation of results (Wong et al., 2018).

3.2 Biochemical and non-destructive detection methods

Advancements in biochemical and non-invasive sensor technologies have introduced powerful tools for early detection of postharvest diseases in avocado, complementing PCR-based diagnostics with real-time, tissue-preserving options (Zamir et al., 2020). Platforms based on metabolomics, volatile profiling, spectroscopy, and artificial intelligence (AI) imaging are increasingly capable of detecting latent infections before visible symptoms appear (Cabrera Ardila et al., 2020; Chauhan et al., 2024; Jansen et al., 2011; Khlaif et al., 2024).

Metabolomic and volatile compound profiling show promise as An et al. (2024) used ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), to identify early-stage biomarkers, including shikimate, succinic acid, and tyrosine, in L. theobromae-infected grapefruit 1 day post-inoculation, predating visible symptoms (An et al., 2024). Similarly, Moalemiyan et al. (2006) used GC–MS to identify volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in mangoes infected with L. theobromae and C. gloeosporioides, classifying SER with 1-pentanol and ethyl boronate, and anthracnose with thujol. Their discriminant model achieved up to 100% classification accuracy (Moalemiyan et al., 2006). In papaya, Tan et al. (2024) used solid-phase microextraction and GC–MS analysis to identify microbial fermentation markers (e.g., acetic acid) and healthy fruit biomarkers such as methyl butanoate and benzyl isothiocyanate, providing a model for avocado disease screening (Tan et al., 2024).

Isothermal microcalorimetry (IMC) has also emerged as a non-destructive biochemical tool capable of monitoring real-time fungal metabolic activity through heat flow. Betancourt-Rodríguez et al. (2023) standardized IMC conditions to characterize Colletotrichum species isolated from various fruits, including avocados, by analyzing thermokinetic parameters. Using the total heat (Ht) and maximum growth rate (μmax), as well as multivariate analyses, they demonstrate consistent and reproducible heat signatures across the isolates. This revealed physiological distinctions that could support future detection efforts (Betancourt-Rodríguez et al., 2023). Building on this, Betancourt-Rodríguez et al. (2025) applied canonical discriminant analysis to group fungal genera based on thermokinetic profiles. Furthermore, they trained a neural network model using the resulting canonical variables. The model achieved high accuracy (95%) in distinguishing Colletotrichum, Penicillium, and Alternaria genera, highlighting IMC’s potential as a rapid and non-invasive diagnostic method (Betancourt-Rodríguez et al., 2025). Spectroscopy and near-infrared (NIR) imaging offer non-destructive diagnostic potential. NIR spectroscopy accurately classified bruising in “Hass” avocados (over 85% accuracy within 1–2 h) (Wedding et al., 2012). Fourier transform NIR spectroscopy (FT-NIRS) assessed anthracnose-induced rot in avocados with 65–84% accuracy (Wedding et al., 2019). Visible-NIR spectroscopy also significantly reduced chilling injury rated in kiwifruit (Clark et al., 2004). These optical technologies demonstrate robust capabilities for early and non-invasive detection of both physical damage and latent disease in horticultural crops.

AI-integrated imaging offers even higher-resolution diagnostics. In Japan, Matsui et al. (2023) used deep learning segmentation (U-net++) on X-ray images to classify rot-affected avocado tissue at the pixel level with 98% accuracy and a root mean square error of just 3.15% in rot area quantification. For surface-based diagnostics, Valiente et al. (2021) applied convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to identify anthracnose lesions with 92% accuracy based on texture and color pattern. Campos-Ferreira et al. (2023) used machine learning classifiers, including Random Forest (RF) and multilayer perceptron (MLP), to distinguish healthy, anthracnose-, and scab-infected fruit. RF and MLP models achieved 98% overall classification accuracy and an F1 score of 98% for anthracnose detection.

Even though many of these tools were developed for anthracnose or in other crops, particularly those detecting VOCs, metabolic shifts, or structural changes, they offer a compelling framework for broader avocado application. Given the latent infection strategies shared by anthracnose and SER, these non-destructive technologies can serve as screening or early-warning systems, enhancing disease control, reducing postharvest losses, and complementing molecular assays.

4 Plant-pathogen interactions: the use of omics

4.1 Metabolomics

Metabolomics has provided key insights into the biochemical changes that occur during avocado ripening and infection. Through high-resolution analytical techniques such as UHPLC–MS, and other variations of metabolic work, researchers have identified metabolites involved in defense, stress signaling, and disease progression (Castro-Moretti et al., 2020). One of the most consistent findings is the decline of antifungal compounds, such as epicatechin, chlorogenic acid, and other flavonoids, as the fruit ripens (Di Stefano et al., 2017; López-Cobo et al., 2016; Ramos-Aguilar et al., 2021; Younis et al., 2022). This reduction, observed across peel, pulp, and seed tissues, weakens internal defenses and correlates with the activation of latent infections by pathogens like C. gloeosporioides and N. parvum (Ardi et al., 1998; Bowen et al., 2018; Prusky et al., 1989, 2013). Phenolic content also varies by cultivar and growing region. Avocados from Spain, Chile, Peru, and Australia show significant differences in flavonol glycosides and phenolic acids (Lyu et al., 2023; Serrano-García et al., 2023), and peel tissues consistently retain higher flavonoid levels than pulp. Rapid phenolic degradation in the pulp may help explain why internal tissues are often the first to succumb to fungal attack (Lyu et al., 2023; Younis et al., 2022).

Pathogens also contribute to disease through their own metabolite production. N. parvum secretes virulence factors like hydroxymellein, isosclerone, and tyrosol, which induce necrosis and cellular damage (Abou-Mansour et al., 2015; Evidente et al., 2010). Other Neofusicoccum species produce fatty acid-derived toxins such as linoleic and azelaic acid, which disrupt host oxidative balance and promote tissue colonization (Salvatore et al., 2018). C. gloeosporioides expresses laccases that degrade polyphenols like epicatechin, undermining antifungal defenses and enhancing lipoxygenase-mediated cell wall breakdown (Guetsky et al., 2005; Bill et al., 2017). Additionally, Botryosphaeriaceae species interfere with jasmonic acid and salicylic acid signaling, suppressing host immune activation (Abou-Mansour et al., 2015).

These metabolic disruptions collectively reduce host resistance and accelerate decay. Yet, metabolomics alone does not reveal the regulatory pathways underlying these shifts. To address this, transcriptomics has emerged as a powerful tool for examining gene expression changes associated with infection, ripening, and postharvest stress (Zhang et al., 2022; Wang and Huo, 2022).

4.2 Transcriptomics

Transcriptomics has significantly advanced our understanding of the molecular responses of avocado during ripening, pathogen attack, and postharvest storage. These insights have revealed critical shifts in plant defense signaling, oxidative stress responses, and fungal virulence regulation.

Foundational studies generated de novo transcriptome assemblies for avocado, mango, and macadamia (Chabikwa et al., 2020), enabling high-resolution analyses of tissue-specific gene expression. In Mexican avocado, transcript profiling identified regulators of fatty acid metabolism and ripening across different tissues and developmental stages (Ibarra-Laclette et al., 2015). Subsequent studies using 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) demonstrated that ethylene inhibition alters expression of key genes involved in ripening and long-term storage responses (Olivares et al., 2022).

Pathogen-focused transcriptomic studies have uncovered immune activation pathways. In fruit infected with C. gloeosporioides and treated with chitosan, Xoca-Orozco et al. (2017) identified upregulation of phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and hormone signaling, suggesting chitosan functions as an elicitor of avocado defense responses. In roots infected with Fusarium kuroshium, genome-wide expression profiling revealed coordinated upregulation of genes and microRNAs related to hormone pathways, secondary metabolism, and cell wall modification, highlighting systemic defense reprogramming (Pale et al., 2024). Storage-associated transcriptomic changes have also been linked to fruit decay. Cold storage conditions modulate antioxidant systems by altering expression of phenolic biosynthesis genes and enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD), both crucial for managing oxidative stress during shelf life (Chirinos et al., 2023). Together, these findings underscore the utility of transcriptomics in unraveling avocado responses to developmental, environmental, and biotic stress cues.

Other pathogen-focused transcriptomic studies have revealed critical virulence strategies employed by both Colletotrichum spp. and Botryosphaeriaceae during crop infection. Transcriptomic studies have revealed that Colletotrichum spp. coordinate distinct gene expression programs across infection stages to support their hemibiotrophic lifestyle (O’Connell et al., 2012). Early infection involves the upregulation of genes linked to appressorium formation, host penetration, and stress tolerance, including melanin biosynthesis enzymes, fatty acid metabolism genes, and redox regulators (O’Connell et al., 2012; Liang et al., 2018). During biotrophy, small secreted proteins (SSPs), LysM effectors, and other immune-suppressing factors are expressed to evade host detection, while the transition to necrotrophy is marked by broad induction of carbohydrate-active enzymes, proteases, tannases, and necrosis-inducing proteins (Liang et al., 2018; Ozbudak et al., 2025). Comparative studies show that dicot-infecting species exhibit greater transcriptional plasticity and deploy a more diverse repertoire of effectors and degradative enzymes than monocot specialists, reflecting host-driven genomic and regulatory adaptation (Baroncelli et al., 2024).

On the host side, transcriptomic studies of resistant cultivars of walnut and strawberry have shown that Colletotrichum infection activates multiple layers of defense, including early expression of pattern recognition receptors (FLS2, EFR), calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs), and pathogenesis-related genes such as PR1 (Fang et al., 2021; Wang et al., 2017). In addition, effector-triggered immunity is activated through resistance genes including RIN4, RPM1, and RPS2, with downstream signaling involving WRKY transcription factors, respiratory burst oxidase homologs (Rboh), and calcium channels (CNGCs) (Fang et al., 2021; Wang et al., 2017). These transcriptional changes reflect a dynamic defense strategy tailored to both the biotrophic and necrotrophic phases of infection.

Transcriptomic analyses have similarly revealed that Botryosphaeriaceae pathogens deploy a diverse array of virulence mechanisms during host colonization. In grapevines infected with Lasiodiplodia theobromae, Zhang et al. (2019) reported strong activation of genes involved in plant hormone signaling, immune receptor recognition, and defense-related secondary metabolism. Both pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP)-triggered and effector-triggered immunity pathways were engaged, with increased expression of pattern recognition receptors, such as FLS2 and CERK1, MAP kinase signaling components (MPK3/6), WRKY transcription factors, and resistance (R) genes, including RPM1 and RPS2. Expression of phenylpropanoid pathway genes and reactive oxygen species (ROS)-associated enzymes further reflected the activation of both local and systemic defense mechanisms in the host (Zhang et al., 2019). Other transcriptomic studies have identified additional fungal virulence factors. L. theobromae upregulates genes involved in phenolic catabolism and cell wall degradation under heat stress conditions, including salicylate hydroxylase, pectate lyase, and catechol dioxygenases (Paolinelli-Alfonso et al., 2016). Moreover, the secreted endopolygalacturonase LtEPG1 in L. theobromae has been shown to induce host cell death and activate defense-related transcription when transiently expressed in Nicotiana benthamiana, suggesting a dual role as both a virulence factor and elicitor (Thilini Chethana et al., 2020; Peng et al., 2025). Together, these findings suggest that Botryosphaeriaceae pathogens utilize a combination of enzymatic degradation, detoxification, and immunomodulatory strategies to facilitate latent colonization and postharvest symptom expression.

4.3 Multi-omics

Multi-omics approaches have enabled researchers to unravel the complex molecular networks regulating postharvest disease development in avocado. While metabolomics has revealed the depletion of antifungal compounds during ripening and transcriptomics has uncovered gene-level immune responses, combining these with genomics and proteomics offers a more integrated view of host-pathogen interactions (Figure 3). This systems-level perspective is critical for understanding how pathogens exploit ripening-associated vulnerabilities to initiate infection and accelerate fruit decay (Núñez-Lillo et al., 2023). However, the effectiveness of multi-omics depends heavily on foundational resources. Without well-annotated genomes and reference datasets for avocado and its pathogens, interpreting gene function, expression patterns, and metabolite shifts remains challenging (Hayes et al., 2024). Nevertheless, recent work is demonstrating the power of integration.

Figure 3
Diagram titled

Figure 3. Multi-omics insights into host-pathogen interactions during postharvest disease. Genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics can collectively reveal pathogen virulence factors, infection strategies, host defense responses, and metabolic shifts, providing an integrated framework for early detection and disease management. (JA = Jasmonic Acid; SA = Salicylic Acid; SOD = Superoxide dismutase; POD = Peroxidase) Created in BioRender. Valencia Bernal, V. (2025) https://BioRender.com/u28ig2w.

Multi-omics approaches have begun to reveal how postharvest fungal pathogens coordinate their infection strategies in response to host physiology, particularly during avocado ripening and storage. Rather than acting through isolated molecular processes, pathogens such as L. theobromae, N. parvum, and B. dothidea deploy tightly regulated networks of virulence genes, identified through genomic and transcriptomic studies, that remain latent in asymptomatic fruit until triggered by postharvest stress (Nagel et al., 2021b). These networks include large inventories of CWDEs, secreted proteases, and biosynthetic gene clusters, which are transcriptionally upregulated in response to host-derived cues such as ripening-related metabolic shifts (Yan et al., 2018).

Integrating genomics and transcriptomics has shown that Botryosphaeriaceae pathogens maintain compact, repeat-poor genomes that lack the “two-speed” structure seen in many fast-evolving fungi (Nagel et al., 2021a). Yet within this stable genome context, virulence genes are co-regulated through dynamic expression modules that respond to changes in host carbohydrate availability and oxidative balance. Gene family expansions linked to stress tolerance and colonization, such as those encoding glucanases, major facilitator superfamily (MFS) transporters, and orsellinic acid biosynthesis enzymes, underscore the group’s metabolic flexibility (Liang et al., 2024). These adaptations allow pathogens to shift quickly from a quiescent state to aggressive colonization without requiring large-scale genomic reorganization.

Colletotrichum species, by contrast, exhibit a stage-specific infection strategy that has been elucidated through coordinated genomic, transcriptomic, and metabolomic analyses. Comparative genomics of C. orbiculare and C. gloeosporioides has revealed enriched clusters of small secreted proteins, carbohydrate-active enzymes, and effectors that support both stealth colonization and host degradation (Gan et al., 2013, 2021). Transcriptomic studies show that during biotrophic establishment, genes encoding LysM-domain proteins and immune-suppressing effectors are upregulated to evade host defenses. As infection transitions to the necrotrophic phase, CWDEs, proteases, and pectinases dominate the transcriptome, reflecting the pathogen’s shift toward tissue breakdown and nutrient acquisition (Gan et al., 2013).

Multi-omics integration has also illuminated the host response. In Stylosanthes plants infected with Colletotrichum, Jiang et al. (2021) demonstrated that infection triggers upregulation of flavonoid biosynthesis genes, including phenylalanine ammonia-lyase and flavonoid 3′-hydroxylase, resulting in elevated accumulation of antifungal metabolites such as kaempferol, quercetin, and naringenin. This biochemical shift occurs alongside downregulation of lignin biosynthesis genes, suggesting a strategic allocation of defense resources from structural reinforcement to metabolite-based antifungal defense (Jiang et al., 2021).

5 Factors influencing postharvest disease

The development and severity of postharvest diseases in avocados are shaped by a complex interplay of preharvest and postharvest factors. Orchard management practices, harvest timing, and ripening physiology directly affect fruit structure, pathogen resistance, and storage performance (Arpaia et al., 1987, 2004; Defilippi et al., 2015). Fruit quality is established during development and maturation; postharvest conditions can only preserve, not improve, this quality (Everett and Pak, 2001).

5.1 Orchard practices

Orchard practices significantly influence avocados’ postharvest quality, fruit firmness, ripening behavior, disease susceptibility, and storage potential (Arpaia et al., 2004; Everett and Pak, 2001). Factors such as irrigation uniformity, tree nutrition, fruit positioning, and sanitation practices directly affect fruit structural integrity, skin resilience, and metabolic stability, influencing postharvest performance and marketability (Defilippi et al., 2015).

Both drought and excessive rainfall significantly affect fruit quality and postharvest disease susceptibility. Inconsistent irrigation has been linked with lenticel damage, irregular ripening, and increased susceptibility to anthracnose and SER (Ramírez-Gil et al., 2021). Excessive rainfall before harvest raises internal water content, leading to cell breakdown during ripening and increased vulnerability to infection (Pak et al., 2003). Water-deficit stress further impacts ripening dynamics; fruits losing water rapidly (2.9% fresh weight/day) ripened 40% faster than those with slower loss (0.5% per day), due to elevated ethylene production and mesocarp softening (Adato and Gazit, 1974). Additionally, drought-stressed fruit develop higher internal temperatures, and without transpiration cooling, postharvest heat buildup exacerbates physiological disorders. Brief exposure to temperatures >25°C for 24 h significantly increases SER and anthracnose incidence (Kassim et al., 2013; Arpaia et al., 2018).

Calcium (Ca) deficiencies increase susceptibility to SER and anthracnose by weakening cell wall structure and accelerating ripening (Thorp et al., 1997; Ramírez-Gil et al., 2021). Calcium crosslinks pectin, limiting enzymatic degradation, nutrient leakage, and microcrack formation that facilitate fungal colonization (Kirkby and Pilbeam, 1984; Messenger et al., 1997; Tingwa and Young, 1974). While foliar Ca (NO3)2 applications have shown mixed results, some improving firmness and reducing ethylene production (Barrientos-Priego et al., 2016), root uptake is generally more effective (Partridge et al., 2002; Messenger et al., 1997). Late-harvested fruit typically contain less calcium, correlating with higher incidence of vascular browning and fungal infection (Thorp et al., 1997; Chaplin and Scott, 1980). Other nutrients also influence disease risk: excess nitrogen promotes rapid ripening and softening, while higher potassium supports skin strength and even ripening (Penter and Stassen, 2000; Kirkby and Pilbeam, 1984).

Orchard canopy structure influences light penetration, humidity, and airflow, all of which affect postharvest disease risk. Fruit from the lower canopy which is exposed to higher humidity and reduced airflow, exhibits increased incidence of anthracnose and SER (Defilippi et al., 2015; Everett and Pak, 2001). Dense canopies also support higher fungal inoculum loads, raising infection rates at harvest (Everett et al., 2007). Canopy position also affects fruit maturity and dry matter (DM) content; lower-canopy and early-season fruit typically accumulate less DM and are more susceptible to diseases (Shezi et al., 2020).

Preharvest fungal inoculum levels in orchards are a major predictor of postharvest rot incidence. The amount of infected leaf tissue within an orchard has been directly correlated with the level of postharvest rots in fruit harvested. Quantification of spore load from leaf surfaces, dead branches, and stem tissue, revealed that these act as major reservoirs for Colletotrichum spp. and Botryosphaeria spp. (Everett et al., 2003). Pruning strategies that reduce canopy density and improve sunlight penetration have been shown to lower postharvest disease rates, as fruit from open canopies exhibit thicker skin, better calcium accumulation, and reduced moisture retention (Ramírez-Gil et al., 2021). These physiological conditions, set during the preharvest period, ultimately influence how fruit responds to harvest and ripening.

5.2 Harvest timing and ripening behavior

Harvest timing significantly impacts postharvest disease resistance. Fruit harvested at peak physiological maturity generally exhibits greater resilience to fungal infection than overripe or immature fruit (Arpaia et al., 2018). Overripe fruit’s increased lipids and ethylene accelerate softening, promoting pathogen invasion. Immature fruit ripens unevenly, developing defects that predispose it to decay (Arpaia et al., 2018; White et al., 2009). This vulnerability is further shaped by the fruit’s postharvest ripening behavior. Unlike many fruits, avocados remain physiologically mature but unripe on the tree due to suppressed ethylene biosynthesis (Hershkovitz et al., 2009; Kende, 1993). Once harvested, they enter climacteric ripening, marked by increased ethylene production and respiration (Lelièvre et al., 1997). These ripening changes weaken fruit defenses: mesocarp softening can cause cuticle microcracks, enabling pathogen entry (Everett, 2020; Everett et al., 2008), while levels of antifungal compounds such as dienes and phenolic acids decline (Prusky et al., 1989, 2013; Prusky and Lichter, 2007). Environmental and orchard level conditions further influence ripening behavior. Warmer preharvest conditions, such as higher mean minimum air temperatures and cumulative degree-days, accelerate postharvest softening and peel color change (Rivera et al., 2017). In contrast, fruit from trees with higher leaf area index and canopy density ripen more slowly, likely due to altered carbohydrate allocation and photosynthetic activity (Rivera et al., 2017). From orchard conditions to harvest timing and postharvest ripening, each stage shapes the fruit’s physiological trajectory and its susceptibility to disease.

6 Management strategies

Effective postharvest avocado disease management requires both preharvest risk mitigation and postharvest handling. Integrated Disease Management (IDM) combines cultural, chemical, biological, and physical controls for sustainable disease reduction (Pandey et al., 2016; Gurr, 2021). However, IDM adoption is limited in avocado due to challenges such as lacking predictive models; nevertheless, its principles are vital for cutting chemical dependence and extending control efficacy (He et al., 2016).

6.1 Cultural practices

Cultural strategies aim to reduce inoculum sources and minimize fruit exposure to conditions that favor pathogen infection. These practices represent targeted interventions used in orchards and packing systems to limit disease development before and during harvest.

Regular removal of fallen fruit, dead wood, and mummified tissues disrupts the disease cycle and limits fungal inoculum in the orchard (Everett et al., 2018; Galsurker et al., 2018). Maintaining an open canopy through selective pruning improves airflow and reduces humidity, two conditions that suppress spore germination and fungal colonization. Pruning should be performed with sanitized tools to prevent mechanical spread of pathogens within and between trees (Everett, 2020; Fostvedt et al., 2024).

Clean harvest cuts are essential for minimizing infection risk. Using clippers instead of pulling fruit prevents stem tearing, a primary entry point for SER pathogens (Mazhar et al., 2018; Koo-Lee, 2024). Harvesting during or immediately after rainfall should be avoided to reduce surface moisture that favors fungal germination. Postharvest, fruit should be cooled to 4°C within 6 h to suppress ripening and pathogen growth, while avoiding lower temperatures to prevent chilling injury. Maintaining cold chain continuity and minimizing handling delays are critical for preserving fruit quality and reducing disease expression during storage and distribution (Morse and Faber, 2017).

6.2 Chemical control

Fungicide applications remain a key component of preharvest disease management in avocado, particularly for controlling anthracnose. In the U.S., only azoxystrobin and copper-based fungicides are registered for use against anthracnose preharvest, while no fungicides are currently approved for managing SER (Morse and Faber, 2017). Postharvest fungicide applications are not standard practice in the U.S., where emphasis remains on cultural practices (Morse and Faber, 2017).

Fungicides trials against Botryosphaeriaceae fungi, remain experimental and are unregistered for commercial avocado production (Valencia Bernal et al., 2025). In Southern California, field trials showed that preharvest applications of azoxystrobin combined with propiconazole significantly protected against Neofusicoccum spp. (Twizeyimana et al., 2013b). New Zealand trials explored copper alternatives for preharvest fungicides. Pyraclostrobin and boscalid effectively controlled anthracnose and SER, often surpassing copper. Fluazinam matched copper for anthracnose but was inconsistent against SER (Everett et al., 2011).

Although limited in avocado, prochloraz showed strong postharvest efficacy in research. A 5-min dip in 500 ppm prochloraz significantly reduced anthracnose and SER (Danderson, 1986). Similar success occurred in mangoes when prochloraz was applied alone or with fludioxonil as a heated dip (Swart et al., 2009). However, prochloraz is not registered for postharvest use in the U.S. and is being phased out in Europe due to toxicological concerns (Shimshoni et al., 2020). As a potential alternative, fludioxonil has demonstrated comparable efficacy against SER and anthracnose. In some avocado trials, it outperformed prochloraz in controlling early-season cultivar decay with minimal residue beyond the peel (Shimshoni et al., 2020).

Fungicide resistance is a major challenge for controlling anthracnose, particularly in Colletotrichum species. Resistance to various fungicide classes, including quinone outside inhibitors (QoIs) is well-documented, often linked to target gene mutations like β-tubulin (Chung et al., 2006). For instance, over 90% of C. acutatum isolates from Florida strawberry fields resisted azoxystrobin and pyraclostrobin (Forcelini et al., 2016). Recently carbendazim-resistant C. fructicola and C. siamense populations were identified in China with no fitness penalties (Karim et al., 2024). Besides biological resistance, fungicide regulations are stringent. Since 1990s, Europe has withdrawn over 70% of previously approved active substances due to environmental and toxicological concerns (Fussell, 2016). Active ingredients such as prochloraz are being phased out due to concerns over carcinogenicity and endocrine disruption (Leskovac and Petrović, 2023). Globally, import rejections from residue are fueling demand for safer, residue-free alternatives (Chikte et al., 2024).

6.3 Biological control

Microbial biocontrol agents (BCA) offer promising alternatives to chemical fungicides for managing anthracnose and SER. Bacterial species such as Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus subtilis produce lytic enzymes like chitinase and β-1,3-glucanase, which degrade fungal cell walls and inhibit pathogen growth. Fortnightly applications of talc-based P. fluorescens formulations combined with chitin have been shown to significantly delay anthracnose symptom development postharvest (Vivekananthan et al., 2004). More recently, three strains of Bacillus thuringiensis were evaluated against C. gloeosporioides, achieving in vivo inhibition rates above 63%. The antagonistic activity was attributed to volatile compound production, nutrient competition, and β-1,3-glucanase secretion (Magallón-Andalón et al., 2025). Yeast-based biocontrol works by competitive exclusion, where yeasts colonize fruit surfaces, outcompeting fungal pathogens for nutrients and infection sites. For instance, Saccharomyces cerevisiae significantly reduced anthracnose in mangoes, suggesting potential for avocado. However, it was less effective than P. fluorescens (Vivekananthan et al., 2004). New findings suggest that Meyerozyma caribbica and M. guilliermondii exhibit strong antagonism against L. theobromae, with co-cultures outperforming individual strains in mycelial inhibition (~90%) (Ayón-Macías et al., 2025). Fungal antagonists, especially Trichoderma species, effectively suppress Colletotrichum and Neofusicoccum pathogens via mycoparasitism, antibiosis, and induced resistance. T. harzianum suppressed C. gloeosporioides in tropical fruits (Wijeratnam et al., 2008), while T. atroviride inhibited N. pseudotrichia growth by 55% and fully controlled SER on avocado (Wanjiku et al., 2021). These biocontrol agents could be integrated into spray programs or combined with low-risk fungicides to enhance disease suppression and reduce chemical use.

However, BCAs often show inconsistent efficacy commercially due to environmental sensitivity and competition with native microbes. For instance, Trichoderma species may be less antagonistic in nutrient-rich soils. Many BCAs require specific temperature or humidity, and small-scale trial success often does not translate to field-scale. Introducing non-native microorganisms also carries ecological risks like invasiveness or disrupting native communities. These limitations highlight the need for more research, better formulations, and careful ecological assessment before fully integrating BCAs into large-scale postharvest disease management (Singh et al., 2020).

To address these limitations, advances in formulation have improved the stability, viability, and delivery of microbial agents under both pre- and post-harvest conditions. In one study, electrosprayed microcapsules of Yamadazyma mexicana applied pre- and postharvest reduced anthracnose severity by up to 96% at 25°C and up to 93% under cold storage, with complete disease suppression (100%) when both treatments were combined, without compromising fruit quality (González-Gutiérrez et al., 2024a). Building on this work, a follow-up study developed a powdered version of the bioformulation, which preserved yeast viability, maintained antifungal activity, and reduced anthracnose severity and incidence by 88.9 and 80%, respectively, during postharvest storage, while also maintaining key physicochemical quality traits of the fruit (González-Gutiérrez et al., 2024b). Similarly, solution blow-spun nanofibers made with pullulan and loaded with Meyerozyma caribbica completely prevented symptom development on avocado fruits as a preventive application and reduced disease severity by up to 76% under curative application in cold storage, outperforming azoxystrobin in both cases (Vázquez-González et al., 2024). These formulation strategies enhance consistency and efficacy across various storage conditions, providing a more consistent and scalable approach to postharvest disease control.

6.4 Systemic resistance inducers

Instead of directly targeting fungal pathogens, systemic resistance inducers (SRIs) activate host defense pathways, priming the fruit’s immune system and reducing its susceptibility to infection (Elliston et al., 1977). These compounds stimulate enzymes such as phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), chitinase, and β-1,3-glucanase, leading to increased phenolic compound accumulation and cell wall reinforcement (Munhuweyi et al., 2020).

Phosphorus acid is an efficient SRI; a 500 mg L−1 preharvest application boosted PAL activity and antifungal compounds, with peak disease suppression 14 days post-treatment (Bosse et al., 2013). Similarly, 1.5% chitosan sprays enhanced PAL and epicatechin in the exocarp, improving firmness and suppressing anthracnose and SER (Munhuweyi et al., 2020; Obianom et al., 2019). Submicron chitosan dispersions also increased PAL, peroxidase (PO), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), and total phenolics in dragon fruit, reducing C. gloeosporioides incidence and severity (Zahid et al., 2015). In avocado, chitosan-thyme oil coatings have been shown to increase phytoalexin production and resistance under warm storage conditions (Herrera-González et al., 2021).

More recently, phenylalanine (Phe) has emerged as an SRI that activates mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades, WRKY transcription factors, and flavonoid biosynthesis. In mango, Phe-treated fruit showed reduced oxidative stress, increased anthocyanin levels, and suppressed Colletotrichum growth (Patel et al., 2023). Moreover, high-degree polymerized agave fructans (HDPAF) have been shown to trigger over 5,400 differentially expressed genes in “Hass” avocado, including key components of immune perception (FLS2, WRKY33, CRK25), MAPK signaling, and phenylpropanoid and flavonoid pathways. HDPAF treatment also delayed ethylene peaks, reduced respiration, and helped preserve fruit quality during storage, highlighting its potential as a dual-function elicitor for both disease management and shelf-life extension (Cuéllar-Torres et al., 2023).

SRIs have also demonstrated efficacy against Botryosphaeriaceae pathogens. In mango, a combination of hexanal vapor and bacterial antagonist (Pseudomonas fluorescens) reduced SER caused by L. theobromae, while increasing the activity of PAL, peroxidase (PO), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) (Seethapathy et al., 2016). In banana, hexanal vapor (800 ppm) completely inhibited C. gloeosporioides and L. theobromae in vitro and reduced disease incidence in vivo by 75.2 and 80.2%, respectively. It transiently elevated PAL, PO, PPO, and glucanase, inhibited phospholipase D, and promoted cell wall thickening, enhancing resistance and delaying ripening (Dhakshinamoorthy et al., 2020). In avocado, preventive root applications of marine extracts with potassium oxide and Trichoderma harzianum reduced L. theobromae lesion development and improved root and dry matter traits, indicating systemic defense activation (Jiménez-Ariza et al., 2023). In passion fruit, eugenol reduced lesion incidence by 87% and increased activities of PAL, chitinase, β-1,3-glucanase, PO, PPO, SOD, and CAT, alongside phenolic and flavonoid accumulation (Sun et al., 2023).

6.5 Plant extracts and essential oils

Plant-derived volatiles and essential oils (EOs) have emerged as promising tools in postharvest disease management. Their antifungal activity stems from multiple mechanisms such as membrane disruption, metabolic interference, inhibition of germination, and in some cases, activation of host defenses (Sivakumar et al., 2021).

Thyme oil, rich in thymol and carvacrol, has shown consistent efficacy against C. gloeosporioides. When applied as vapor in combination with modified atmosphere packaging, it significantly reduced anthracnose severity in avocado and extended shelf life by minimizing lesion development and ripening (Sellamuthu et al., 2013). Similarly, Lippia sidoides oil, incorporated into a 1% carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) edible coating, reduced infection rates while maintaining firmness and sensory quality of avocados, an effect attributed to its synergistic action of thymol and carvacrol (Antonia et al., 2024).

Other plant species such as Lippia scaberrima L. javanica, and Artemisia afra have demonstrated strong antifungal effects linked to terpenoid components like R-(-)-carvone. Their oils have been successfully tested in coating applications and in fresh-cut systems, where they reduced browning, microbial load, and helped preserve antioxidant activity on avocados (Regnier et al., 2010; Adeogun et al., 2020a, 2020b). Furthermore, clove and cinnamon oils, used in fumigation or dip treatments, delayed SER for up to 7 days at 15°C, with clove oil proving most effective against L. theobromae and Diaporthe nelumbonis (Nilmini et al., 2021).

EO volatility remains a key limitation, reducing their efficacy in storage. To overcome this, edible coatings are used to regulate EO release and improve adhesion. Chitosan and CMC-based coatings incorporating oregano or moringa extracts have demonstrated improved firmness retention, antioxidant preservation, and slowed ripening in avocado (Tesfay et al., 2021; Cenobio-Galindo et al., 2019). Basil oil embedded in a beeswax matrix similarly reduced fungal development while maintaining texture (Karunanayake et al., 2020).

Encapsulation and nano structuring have further enhanced delivery. Thyme oil-loaded chitosan nanoparticles completely inhibited C. gloeosporioides in vitro and reduced disease incidence by up to 60% in fruit without compromising quality (Correa-Pacheco et al., 2017). In another study, EO-chitosan formulations integrated into biodegradable polymeric nets reduced anthracnose by 80%, offering a novel packaging-based solution (Correa-Pacheco et al., 2022). Modified atmosphere packaging with lemongrass EO further suppressed anthracnose severity and preserved marketable traits such as firmness, flavor, and color (Mpho et al., 2013).

Incorporating EOs into coatings and packaging systems has expanded their utility beyond surface sprays, allowing for sustained antifungal activity and improved fruit quality. Even though these treatments may not fully replace fungicides in high-pressure disease environments, they offer a compelling alternative or complement in organic systems and export markets seeking to reduce postharvest losses while meeting sustainability standards.

7 Sensory and consumer impact of fungal diseases

Postharvest diseases significantly compromise avocado sensory attributes, including texture, flavor, and aroma, critically impacting consumer acceptance and marketability (Ramírez-Gil et al., 2021). While external blemishes are visible, internal quality deterioration manifesting as excessive softening, uneven ripening, off-flavors, and textural collapse is more detrimental to consumer perception (Aked, 2002). Dry matter (DM) content is a key quality determinant, high DM (>26%) correlates with a desirable buttery texture and richer flavor, whereas low DM (<20%) fruit results in a watery, bland, and less appealing fruit (Giuggioli et al., 2023). Fungal infections accelerate cell wall breakdown, lipid oxidation, and enzymatic degradation, leading to premature softening and structural collapse, making fruit feel undesirable even pre-consumption (Defilippi et al., 2018; Harker et al., 2010; Ruiz-Aracil et al., 2024). The preferred ripeness stage at purchase (medium-soft 6.5 N firmness) is also disrupted by pathogens which either accelerate or delay softening, leading to increased bruising and internal necrosis that significantly reduce purchase intent (Arpaia et al., 2015).

Beyond textural changes, disease-induced biochemical shifts influence aroma, reducing consumer acceptability. Fungal infections alter aroma by producing VOCs, modifying phenolic content, and increasing lipid oxidation (Bano et al., 2023; Fernandes et al., 2024; Obenland et al., 2012). Pathogenic fungi, including Colletotrichum spp. and Botryosphaeriaceae spp., disrupt natural volatiles profiles by accelerating lipid membrane breakdown, leading to an incomplete transition from immature to mature aromas (Gong et al., 2022; Obenland et al., 2012; Parthasarathy et al., 2017). Healthy ripening avocados undergo a decline in grassy aldehydes (e.g., hexanal), and an increase in desirable compounds like acetaldehyde, and β-myrcene, contributing to a creamy, nutty aroma (Obenland et al., 2012). However, fungal infections alter the trajectory, often preserving grassy aldehydes and suppressing key esters, resulting in unripe, musty, or fermented odors (Gong et al., 2022). For example, Colletotrichum infections trigger oxidative stress and elevate enzymes like PPO, POD, and lipoxygenase (LOX), promoting lipid oxidation and rancid volatiles formation (Fernandes et al., 2024). Similar infections in mangoes and apples increase alcohols, ketones, and aldehydes, associated with unpleasant odors (Parthasarathy et al., 2017). The increase in C6/C9 aldehydes and alcohols in infected fruit is linked to LOX pathway activation contributing to off flavors (Gong et al., 2019). Given aroma’s critical role in consumer acceptability, fungal-induced volatile disruptions emphasize the need for effective postharvest disease management to preserve avocado aroma and marketability.

While postharvest fungal diseases reduce fresh avocados marketability, the impact on processed products is poorly understood. Processing typically involves removing visibly defective fruit, disinfection and blending with additives (Koo-Lee, 2024). However, infected fruit passing visual inspection can still exhibit internal breakdown, off-flavors, and altered volatile profiles that persist post-processing, particularly in minimally processed items like guacamole. Despite rising demand for avocado products, systematic research on how infections affect processed quality is lacking. Addressing this gap is critical for developing comprehensive disease management extending beyond whole-fruit appearance.

8 Discussion

Research on postharvest fungal diseases in avocado exhibits a notable imbalance. While significant attention has been paid to Colletotrichum species and anthracnose due to their economic impact and available research tools, Botryosphaeriaceae fungi (SER pathogens), including Neofusicoccum, Lasiodiplodia, and Botryosphaeria, remain comparatively understudied in avocado. Much of the current knowledge is derived from other hosts, limiting avocado-specific disease models and hindering a full understanding of latent infection and unique symptom expression.

Despite advancements in molecular diagnostics (e.g., qPCR, LAMP) for asymptomatic detection, their broader adoption faces challenges. High costs, specialized equipment, training needs, and lack of standardized protocols limit implementation, particularly for small-scale producers and in resource-limited regions (O’Brien and Alamar, 2025). Similarly, multi-omics approaches are nascent, but their utility is constrained by a lack of annotated genomes, cultivar-specific infection models, and foundational omics datasets for avocado and its pathogens, hindering the identification of functional interactions.

Current management strategies largely depend on cultural practices and fungicides, especially preharvest treatments for anthracnose. However, efficacy against SER is inconsistent, and concerns over fungicide resistance and environmental impact drive the need for sustainable alternatives. While fungicides will likely persist, they can be complemented by biological control agents, systemic resistance inducers, and plant-based products. The transition of biocontrol solutions from laboratory to commercial scales has encountered hurdles like inconsistent efficacy under variable conditions, formulation stability, and regulatory complexities (Peralta-Ruiz et al., 2023).

Beyond disease control, these infections severely impact sensory attributes diminishing consumer acceptance and marketability (Gamble et al., 2010) softening, discoloration, and off-flavors (Obenland et al., 2012). As the avocado industry expands, future research must integrate traditional management with emerging biotechnologies. A multidisciplinary approach, combining agronomic, molecular, and technological innovations, is essential for ensuring long-term sustainability. By adopting a systems-based approach, from preharvest optimization to innovative management, the industry can secure more effective, sustainable, and economically viable solutions to preserve avocado quality globally.

Author contributions

VB: Formal analysis, Conceptualization, Writing – review & editing, Writing – original draft. NB: Writing – review & editing, Formal analysis. SA: Conceptualization, Writing – review & editing. FK: Investigation, Conceptualization, Supervision, Writing – review & editing.

Funding

The author(s) declare that no financial support was received for the research and/or publication of this article.

Acknowledgments

We would like to thank Xiaoyu Liang, Ye Yang, Porfirio Gutiérrez-Martínez, Juan Antonio Herrera-González, and Alejandro K. Llanos for sending and allowing us to reproduce their images.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

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Keywords: avocado, postharvest diseases, stem-end rot, anthracnose, body rot

Citation: Bernal VV, Boeckman NJ, Aćimović SG and Khodadadi F (2025) The dark side of avocados: a review of anthracnose and stem-end rot in postharvest fruit. Front. Microbiol. 16:1644061. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2025.1644061

Received: 10 June 2025; Accepted: 08 August 2025;
Published: 10 October 2025.

Edited by:

Montserrat Calderon-Santoyo, National Technology of Mexico CRODE Celaya, Mexico

Reviewed by:

Asgar Ali, University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus, Malaysia
Juan Manuel Tovar-Pedraza, National Council of Science and Technology (CONACYT), Mexico
Ani Widiastuti, Gadjah Mada University, Indonesia

Copyright © 2025 Bernal, Boeckman, Aćimović and Khodadadi. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

*Correspondence: Fatemeh Khodadadi, ZmF0ZW1laGtAdWNyLmVkdQ==

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