Bangkok: The Ministry of Agriculture is taking proactive steps to combat leaf fall disease in rubber trees by supporting the use of bio-fermented black-chinned tilapia for garden restoration. This initiative aims to not only rehabilitate affected rubber plantations but also address the issue of black-chinned tilapia overpopulation.
According to Thai News Agency, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Narumon Pinyosinwat, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, led the opening ceremony of a specialized training course designed to promote the use of black-chinned tilapia bio-fermentation. This innovative approach is targeted at addressing the round spot disease caused by Colletotrichum siamense, a newly identified form of leaf fall disease affecting rubber trees. Attendees at the event included prominent figures from the Ministry of Agriculture, academic lecturers, and rubber farmers, all gathered to explore sustainable solutions for the agricultural sector.
The Rubber Authority of Thailand (RAOT) has spearheaded the organizatio
n of this training course with the primary objective of educating rubber farmers on the innovative use of black-chinned tilapia bio-fermentation. This method is expected to significantly aid in the rehabilitation of rubber trees afflicted by the new leaf fall disease. Furthermore, the training seeks to equip farmers with the necessary skills to survey their rubber plantations and assess the risk of disease outbreaks. The RAOT, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, is actively monitoring the disease’s spread and exploring preventive measures. These measures include providing support and compensation to affected farmers, as well as introducing disease-resistant rubber varieties.
The new rubber leaf fall disease, which emerged in Thailand in 2019, has prompted continuous monitoring and policy development by the Ministry of Agriculture. The RAOT has been designated as the lead agency in implementing a range of strategies to curb the disease’s spread. These strategies encompass the testing of fungic
ides, support for sprayers, and the development of new rubber varieties resistant to the disease. Additionally, efforts are being made to assist farmers through sustainable development projects and the use of environmentally friendly chemicals and biological products. By collaborating with various agencies, including the Department of Fisheries and the Department of Land Development, the RAOT is working to produce effective bio-fermented water from black-chinned tilapia to restore rubber plantations.
Mr. Sukthat Tangwiriyakul, Acting Governor of RAOT, emphasized the importance of addressing the epidemic of leaf fall disease, particularly in the upper northeastern regions of Thailand. Provinces such as Nong Khai, Udon Thani, Bueng Kan, and Loei, covering a total area of 3,215 rai, have been significantly affected. The training course aims to disseminate knowledge of black-chinned tilapia bio-fermentation to rubber plantation owners, enabling them to manage leaf fall disease effectively. The RAOT is committed
to ongoing public relations efforts and long-term management guidelines to prevent future outbreaks. RAOT staff across seven areas nationwide will continue to provide support and guidance to rubber farmers, ensuring they are well-prepared to tackle this challenge.