[2] Two closely related sublineages exist within this species, one centered in western Ecuador and the other containing isolates from Brazil, Colombia and Costa Rica.

[4] This fungus is able to penetrate cacao trees through stem wounds that are caused either by insects or through infected cutting tools.

[4] The fungus enters its host through the xylem, causing a deep stain leading to the obstruction of water and nutrient transport.

[4] The disease has been of major importance in Costa Rica, Trinidad and Tobago, Ecuador, parts of Colombia and Venezuela.

[4] This disease is responsible for reductions in the cacao population in plantation areas, which has resulted in great economic losses in the affected regions.