Volume 5 Numéro 1 (1)
18
février
2026
Verticillium Wilt of Olive in Tunisia: An Integrated Review of Pathogen, Disease Dynamics and Sustainable Management Strategies
- Titre : Verticillium Wilt of Olive in Tunisia: An Integrated Review of Pathogen, Disease Dynamics
and Sustainable Management Strategies - DOI:
- Auteur : Yaakoub Gharbi¹, Emna Bouazizi¹, Manel Cheffi¹, Mohamed Ali Triki¹
- Abstract :Verticillium wilt, caused by the soil-borne fungus Verticillium dahliae, represents a major threat to olive
cultivation (Olea europaea L.) in Tunisia, a leading global producer of olive oil. Since its initial detection in
2006 in the south, the disease has spread to key olive-growing areas, causing significant economic losses
through tree mortality, yield reduction, and diminished oil quality. Tunisian research has been pivotal in
characterizing the local pathogen, revealing significant genetic diversity and the presence of highly virulent
defoliating (D) pathotypes (Triki et al., 2011). This review synthesizes recent advances (2006-2024) in
understanding the pathogen's biology, genetic diversity, and interaction with the host and environment, with
a specific emphasis on the Tunisian context. It provides a critical evaluation of integrated disease
management (IDM) strategies developed and tested within the country, from pre-planting diagnostics using
advanced molecular tools to the identification of promising local biocontrol agents and the evaluation of
resistant cultivars. This review also highlights emerging insights from worldwide studies, including the
exploration of the olive holobiont and the potential of RNA interference (RNAi) and phage therapy as nextgeneration
control methods (Tuberosa, 2012). Finally, we outline future research priorities based on local
findings, emphasizing the need for climate-resilient solutions and a holistic "holobiont" approach to
safeguard the sustainability of Tunisia's vital olive sector. - Pagination : 01-10
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