Comprehensive review of apple scab disease: Pathogen biology, epidemiology, resistance, and advanced management strategies

Abstract

Abstract Apple scab, caused by Venturia inaequalis , was the most economically important fungal disease worldwide, particularly in temperate and humid areas. The purpose of this review is to summarize the biology and the epidemiology of V. inaequalis , its infection strategies and survival tactics, and its climate-driven epidemic dynamics. Special attention is given to the constraints posed by fungicide resistance and pathogen flexibility as well as the role of climate change in shaping disease distribution and severity. Recent developments in the improvement of host resistance such as gene pyramiding, marker-assisted selection (MAS) and CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing have been critically reviewed. In addition, integrated strategies including cultural, chemical, biological, and biotechnological strategies are described and emphasized as effective, alternative strategies for reducing the dependency on fungicides. Novel developments such as predictive modeling, artificial intelligence, and deep learning applications may provide promising methods for early detection, disease prediction, and control strategies improved at several levels. This review attempts to direct future research and practical action toward sustainable management of apple scab of global food safety and orchard sustainability significance.