Frequency of occurrence of pathogens of diseases observed in cucumber (Cucumis sativa L.) plants

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Research Paper 21/04/2026
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Frequency of occurrence of pathogens of diseases observed in cucumber (Cucumis sativa L.) plants

K. F. Bakhshaliyeva*, A. Kh. Rajabli, A. G. Eyvazov, E. I. Allahverdiyev, S. F. Azadaliyeva
Int. J. Biosci. 28(4), 181-186, April 2026.
Copyright Statement: Copyright 2026; The Author(s).
License: CC BY-NC 4.0

Abstract

This study presents the results of phytopathological monitoring of diseases affecting cucumber (Cucumis sativa L.) plants cultivated under covered (greenhouse) conditions in the Republic of Azerbaijan. The objective was to determine the species composition of phytopathogenic organisms and evaluate their prevalence. A total of approximately 400 samples were collected and analyzed using standard phytopathological and mycological methods, including humidity chamber incubation and microscopic identification based on cultural and morphological characteristics. The results revealed the involvement of 20 species in the formation of cucumber pathogenic mycobiota, including one fungus-like organism (Chromista), 18 species from the Ascomycota division, and one from Basidiomycota. The distribution of diseases showed that root and root rot diseases were the most prevalent (42.7%), followed by leaf spot diseases (39.5%), powdery mildew (7.5%), and other diseases such as gray and white rot (10.3%). Among the pathogens, species of the genus Fusarium were dominant in root diseases, while Alternaria species were most significant in leaf spot infections. Environmental factors, particularly temperature and humidity, were identified as key determinants influencing disease development and spread. Optimal conditions for pathogen activity generally ranged between 15–20°C and 80–100% relative humidity, although variations existed among different pathogens. The findings highlight the diversity and prevalence of phytopathogenic fungi affecting cucumber crops under greenhouse conditions and emphasize the importance of environmental management and targeted disease control strategies to reduce crop losses and improve productivity.

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