Scientists Work to Protect Wheat Crops from Fungal Threats
Wheat is a vital crop in Canada, with about 30 million tonnes harvested annually. It’s highly valued for its quality and protein content and is exported to around 80 countries.
However, like all plants, wheat is vulnerable to diseases, and one of the most significant threats today is tan spot disease.
Tan spot disease is a fungal infection caused by the fungus Pyrenophora tritici-repentis, which has been a growing concern since its emergence about 50 years ago.
The fungus thrives in wet conditions, releasing spores that infect wheat crops, leading to tan-coloured lesions on the leaves.
These lesions damage the plant’s ability to photosynthesize, reducing its growth, yield, and grain quality. Severe infections can reduce wheat yields by over 60%, causing significant economic losses.
To combat this threat, a team of researchers at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), led by Dr. Reem Aboukhaddour, is conducting a global study to understand how the disease evolves.
The research involves analyzing the genetic makeup of the fungus, identifying mutations and transposons (jumping genes) that contribute to its virulence.
The team has already discovered new forms of the pathogen that cause more damage to durum wheat, particularly in Canada.
This ongoing research is crucial for developing effective strategies to manage tan spot disease and protect wheat crops.
The team has provided valuable resources to the scientific community, including fully sequenced genomic data of the fungus from various sources worldwide.
These efforts aim to reduce the incidence of tan spot disease, helping farmers safeguard their fields and prevent severe economic impacts.