Banana plantations in Colombia threatened by deadly fungus

The transcript discusses the spread of the TR4 fungus in Cavendish banana plantations, highlighting the genetic vulnerability of these bananas due to their monoculture nature. TR4 spreads through infected planting material, soil, and water, disrupting the plant's vascular system and halting fruit production. The fungus is difficult to remove from soil, as fumigants and fungicides are ineffective.

What makes Cavendish bananas particularly susceptible to the TR4 fungus?

• They are not widely cultivated.

• They are resistant to most diseases.

• They have identical genetics.

• They are grown in diverse climates.

How does the TR4 fungus primarily spread?

• Through animal carriers.

• By direct contact with other plants.

• Via infected planting material and infested soil and water.

• Through the air.

What is the role of promusa.org in the context of TR4 fungus?

• It is a research lab developing banana varieties.

• It is a government agency regulating banana trade.

• It is a platform sharing information about bananas.

• It is a company producing fungicides.

What happens to the Cavendish banana plant when infected by the TR4 fungus?

• It produces larger bananas.

• It grows faster.

• It stops producing fruit.

• It becomes resistant to other diseases.

Why are fumigants and fungicides ineffective against TR4 fungus in soil?

• The chemicals are too expensive.

• The fungus is not present in the soil.

• They are not applied correctly.

• The fungus is resistant to these chemicals.