Enhancement of brown rust in three varieties of wheat by Mendok treatment

Abstract

In a study intended to evaluate the gametocidal effect of Mendok (sodium 2,3-dichloroisobutyrate) applied to the foliage of four varieties of wheat, varying degrees of intensity of brown rust infection and sporulation were observed. The varieties resistant to brown rust (Lerma Rojo and Sonora 64) became less resistant, while the susceptible variety (N.P. 718) showed moderate to heavy infection in contrast to the unsprayed controls. The enhancement of rust incidence was associated with the growth responses produced by the chemical. Application of Mendok may thus be useful for maintaining rust cultures and for multiplying the inoculum.