Outbreak of coffee rust threatens Latin American coffee supply

The video discusses Himalaya Vastatrix, a fungus affecting coffee plants. It starts with the fungus's characteristics and how it infects the lower leaves of coffee plants. The disease causes lesions that spread spores, weakening the plant and reducing coffee cherry production. While fungicides can control the infection, they pose environmental risks. Scientists are working on genetic resistance by crossbreeding Arabica with immune hybrids, but the fungus is evolving, threatening these efforts. As of 2017, some resistant varieties are losing their immunity.

What is the initial symptom of the coffee plant disease caused by Himalaya Vastatrix?

• Brown spots on the stem

• Black dots on the cherries

• Yellow-orange lesions on leaves

• White powder on the roots

Why is the use of fungicides not a perfect solution for controlling coffee rust?

• They cause the leaves to fall off

• They are ineffective against the fungus

• They can become toxic to the environment

• They are too expensive

What is one method scientists are using to combat coffee rust?

• Using organic fertilizers

• Planting in higher altitudes

• Increasing sunlight exposure

• Crossbreeding for genetic resistance

What challenge does the evolving fungus pose to coffee plant resistance?

• It makes the plants grow slower

• It reduces the size of coffee cherries

• It can overcome previously immune genes

• It causes the plants to need more water

As of 2017, which coffee variety was noted to have lost its resistance to the fungus?

• Ethiopian Heirloom

• Honduran Lampira

• Robusta

• Arabica