First report of Ceratobasidium theobromae on cassava in Suriname
Ceratobasidium theobromae (syn. Rhizoctonia theobromae) was recently recorded from South America and is considered as an emerging pest of global concern by the IPPC (EPPO RS 2025/408, RS 2026/002).
Symptoms of cassava witches broom disease have been observed in Suriname since the end of 2025. At the end of February 2026, samples were taken in cassava (Manihot esculenta) fields in Marowijne region, and the identity of the pathogen was confirmed as being Ceratobasidium theobromae by the Centre for Agricultural Research in Suriname (CELOS).
The NPPO of Suriname has not yet officially confirmed the presence of the pathogen on its territory. The NPPO has been conducting national surveys and training for farmers. As of February 2026, the NPPO stated that Coronie and Nickerie regions are free of cassava witches broom disease.
Sources
StarNeuws (2026-02-27) CELOS identificeert oorzaak cassaveziekte: schimmel bedreigt voedselteelt [CELOS identifies cause of cassava disease: fungus threatens food production] https://dagbladdewest.com/2026/02/27/nieuwe-schimmel-bedreigt-cassaveproductie-in-suriname/
Suriname Ministry of Agriculture
- 2026-02-23: DOAB en LVV onderzoeken melding van cassaveziekte in Marowijne [DOAB and LVV investigate report of cassava disease in Marowijne]. https://gov.sr/doab-en-lvv-onderzoeken-melding-van-cassaveziekte-in-marowijne/
- 2026-02-28 : [Coronie and Nickerie free of cassava disease witches' broom] https://gov.sr/coronie-en-nickerie-vrij-van-cassaveziekte-heksenbezem/