Researchers at Embrapa have sequenced, for the first time in Brazil, the genome of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cyclaminis (Focy), the fungus responsible for fusarium wilt in cyclamen. The scientific advance strengthens disease control strategies for a pathogen that, in 2023, compromised more than 70% of Cyclamen persicum production in greenhouses in Holambra (SP), one of the leading flower and ornamental plant hubs in the Americas.
Cyclamen is one of the most widely cultivated ornamental plants in the country. Prized for its colorful flowers and long blooming period, it is a common presence in gardens and indoor spaces.
© EMBRAPA
The 2023 outbreak was the starting point for identifying Focy as the causal agent of the disease and for the complete sequencing of strain CMAA 1919, now deposited in the Collection of Microorganisms of Environmental and Agricultural Importance at Embrapa Meio Ambiente (SP). Beyond the economic losses, the pathogen poses a threat to the continued production of this high-value ornamental crop in the country.
According to Embrapa Meio Ambiente researcher Bernardo Halfeld-Vieira, this is the first genomic sequencing of a representative isolate of the pathogen in Brazil. "The genetic sequence provides fundamental information about its biology, pathogenicity, and evolutionary history. In practice, this progress opens the way to developing more precise strategies to identify, monitor, and control the disease in production areas," he explains.
Impact on the ornamental flower sector
In Brazil, potted flower production accounts for around 40% of the sector's revenue, which moves approximately 19.5 billion reais (around $3.5 billion USD) per year. Holambra and neighboring municipalities are home to highly specialized producers responsible for a significant share of this market.
The 2023 outbreak caused substantial losses. More than 4,000 plants showed symptoms including leaf yellowing and wilting, vascular discoloration, and bulb death. The losses pushed up production costs and forced growers to intensify phytosanitary treatments.
For fellow Embrapa Meio Ambiente researcher André May, the sequencing of the Focy genome marks a milestone in the fight against fusarium wilt in cyclamen. "Beyond identifying the pathogen with precision, genomic analysis broadens our understanding of the genes associated with virulence, host specificity, and environmental adaptation. With this, we can better guide management strategies and accelerate the development of more effective solutions for the sector," he says.
Halfeld-Vieira adds that this data is fundamental for developing sustainable strategies — from breeding resistant varieties and identifying targeted fungicides to refining monitoring and early diagnosis techniques.
Previous studies on other Fusarium oxysporum strains, such as F. oxysporum f. sp. cubense, responsible for Panama disease in banana, have already demonstrated the potential of genomic sequencing in the fight against pathogens. Those advances made it possible to identify key genes and develop resistant varieties and more efficient control methods. Similar strategies are expected to be applicable to cyclamen wilt management.
According to researcher Kátia Nechet, who also participated in the work, although fusarium wilt in cyclamen was first reported in Brazil in the 1970s, identification of the causal agent had relied solely on visible symptoms and pathogenicity tests, with no molecular data to support it. "The genomic description of strain CMAA 1919 not only confirms the presence of Focy, but also provides a starting point for collaborative research aimed at understanding the disease's epidemiology and the factors influencing its spread," she says.
Future impacts on the Brazilian market
In the ornamental plant market, production sustainability is becoming a strategic priority. Access to detailed genomic data on Focy strengthens the capacity to respond to new outbreaks and can accelerate the development of tools such as molecular probes for rapid diagnosis, breeding programs, and more targeted management strategies.
The complete genomic description of strain CMAA 1919 establishes a solid scientific foundation for collaborative research and for shaping prevention and control policies. By integrating biotechnology and sustainable practices, the sector gains instruments to reduce losses, increase production efficiency, and reinforce its competitiveness in domestic and international markets.
Collaboration between research institutions and growers is also consolidating as a key element in anticipating health risks and mitigating economic and environmental impacts.
Source: embrapa.br
