Location: Wheat Health, Genetics, and Quality Research
Project Number: 2090-22000-019-030-A
Project Type: Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Mar 31, 2026
End Date: Mar 30, 2029
Objective:
The objectives of this cooperative research are to identify, characterize and control nematodes, soilborne and foliar pathogens of wheat and barley, which cause root and crown rot diseases, rusts and head blights; to identify the effects of cropping systems on pathogen population size and diversity, and on disease epidemiology; and to identify wheat and/or barley germplasm with resistance / tolerance against diseases.
Approach:
Root, crown rot and foliar diseases and nematodes will be identified and characterized through a combination of laboratory, greenhouse and field studies. The ecology of soilborne and foliar pathogens and effects of cropping systems on pathogen population size and diversity and disease epidemiology will be determined using plant pathology, microbiology and molecular biology methods. Wheat and barley germplasm will be screened for resistance or tolerance to pathogens in the field and greenhouse. Practical root and foliar disease control will be accomplished through a combination of agronomic practices and biological and chemical treatments.