Diseases of dragon fruit (Hylocereus species): Etiology and current management options

More than seven billion people compete for food to survive. Agriculture has increased the production of staple crops, through plant breeding and biotechnology, in arable areas that are now becoming limited due to industrialization. With staple crops becoming a common diet and with people getting the same nutrients from these foods, wild, exotic and underutilized edible plants are being explored as supplements or alternatives. One potential plant is dragon fruit or pitahaya. This vine cactus plant is water-efficient, rich in betalains and antioxidants, has medicinal benefits and is a source of income to growers. However, dragon fruit production faces significant challenges. Among these, losses due to diseases play a significant role in fruit-yield reduction and profitability. This paper provides a comprehensive review of dragon fruit diseases, their associated pathogens, distribution, and their current management options. We conclude that anthracnose, fruit and stem rot, stem canker and the cactus viral disease are among the most frequently reported diseases of dragon fruit and actions are needed to address the growing problems associated with these diseases as effective, sustainable and practical management strategies are yet to be identified.