Interaction of root-lesion nematode (Pratylenchus thornei) and crown rot fungus (Fusarium culmorum) associated with spring wheat resistance under simulated field conditions

Abstract

maintained their resistance reaction against the complex disease involving both pathogens, while only four lines provided resistance against individual and combined infestations. Infestation scenarios of both pathogens were monitored for each resistant variety and predicted using both reproduction factor and disease index. Pratylenchus thornei downgraded all resistant lines to F. culmorum, facilitating infestation and making their severity more pronounced (169% cumulative damage) with a negative impact on yield performance. These findings are useful for improving nematode × fungus resistance in wheat and selecting promising germplasm for breeding purposes against both diseases.