FACTORS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DEATH OF MANGO TREES IN USMANU DANFODIYO UNIVERSITY SOKOTO, MAIN CAMPUS

Abstract

This study assessed the Factors Responsible for the Death of Mango Trees in Usmanu DTanfodiyo University Sokoto, Main Campus. Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is the most popular and commonly eaten fruit among millions of people in tropical areas; it is a family member of the Anacardiaceae, one of the crops grown abundantly throughout the Nigerian tropics. The specific objectives are to: Determine the biotic (such as pests and diseases) and abiotic factors (such as soil quality, water availability, and climate conditions) that may contribute to the health decline and mortality of mango trees within the university’s agricultural setting; to assess the impact of recent environmental changes (such as temperature fluctuations, humidity, and changes in land use) on the growth and survival of mango trees, exploring how these factors may correlate with observed mortality rates; to evaluate the current agricultural and management practices employed in the care of mango trees at the university, and to determine how these practices may influence tree health and mortality rates, and identifying areas for improvement. Surveys was carrying out in July, 2025 in Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto permanent site to determine the frequency of occurrence of disease of mango. At each site, 10 randomly selected and 5 year old mangoes was inspected. The frequency of occurrence was taken as the number of mango trees affected by the disease expressed as percentage of the total number of mango trees at a location. The results revaled that; 28% of the responses were on the opinion that Yellowing/ Wilting of leaves of mango is among the symptoms affected the mango trees, 42% were on the opinion that Black spots/ lesions on leaves or stems is the symptoms of affected the death mango trees, 10.0% of the respondents believed that Fungal growth is symptom affecting mango trees, while 14% of the respondents were on the opinion that Cracking/ Rotting of stem is the symptom to be observed in the affect mango trees. The study concluded that; the death of mango trees in Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto can be attributed to several possible factors, based on the investigation and available data: The harsh climatic conditions, including high temperatures and low rainfall, might have caused significant stress to the mango trees