Comparison of the infestation of three rubber tree clones by Phragmantera capitata (Sprengel) S. Balle (Loranthaceae) in the South-west region of Cameroon

Rubber tree clones are used for their high latex production, resistance to the diseases and to the climatic conditions. The aim of this study was to characterize the parasitism of Phragmanthera capitata on three rubber clones. The study was carried out in the rubber plantations of the Cameroon Development Corporation located in 4 villages around Muyuka and Tiko, two locality of the Fako Department, South-West Region of Cameroon. The method used was cluster sampling and the parcels of 100 m × 100 m were measured in each bloc prospected. Parameter such as circumference of trunk, the row number, and the number of tufts of P. capitata were noted for each parasitized tree. Clone PB 217 (61.73%) recorded the highest parasitism rate, and PR 107 the highest average of number of tufts (5±3.12 tufts/tree). Parasitized trees of the clone PR 107 were located closer to the border than the others clones, which an average depth of 16.4 m. An efficiency struggle method against P. capitata must be found to preserve the yield of rubber tree plantations.