Cacao Mild Mosaic Virus Infection of Cacao (Theobroma cacao) Plants in Puerto Rico Does Not Affect Yield

Cacao mild mosaic virus (CaMMV), a member of the Badnavirus genus, has emerged as a prevalent virus in cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) trees in the Caribbean region, Central America, some cacao-producing locations in South America, and Indonesia. Eight cacao genotypes were grown on an Ultisol soil in Corozal, PR, and evaluated for 2 years of production under intensive management to determine their response to CaMMV infection. The results showed significant varietal effects (P < 0.01) on key parameters, including number of pods, dry bean yield, and pod index. The year and the genotype 3 year interaction did not show a significant effect except for pod index. Virus infection among experimental trees averaged 80%, ranging from 73.3% to 100% across genotypes. ‘TARS-9’ was the highest producer with 5544 kg·ha²¹ per year dry beans, followed by ‘SHRS-7’ (5002 kg·ha²¹). Despite high CaMMV infection, yield levels were remarkably high, indicating no adverse impact on production. This study marks the first formal report of extraordinary cacao yields reaching 5500 kg·ha²¹ per year.