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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Stuttgart, Arkansas » Dale Bumpers National Rice Research Center » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #219853
Title: Genotype x Management interactions influencing susceptibility to rice grain smuts

Author
item Brooks, Steven
item ANDERS, MERLE - UNIV. OF AR RREC

Submitted to: Rice Technical Working Group Meeting Proceedings
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: 1/15/2008
Publication Date: 3/1/2008
Citation: Brooks, S.A., Anders, M. 2008. Genotype x Management interactions influencing susceptibility to rice grain smuts. In: Proceedings of the 32nd Rice Technical Working Group Meetings, February 18-21, 2008, San Diego, CA. 2008. CDROM.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Grain smuts have historically been considered minor diseases of rice in the United States. In recent years localized infestations of kernel smut and increased prevalence of false smut have raised interest in these diseases. Although major gene resistance has not been described for either disease, variation in levels of susceptibility exists among rice cultivars. Susceptibility is confounded by genotype x fertility interactions, where increased levels of nitrogen fertilizer promote disease, making assessments of resistance among germplasm accessions difficult. Our goals are to identify genetic sources of resistance to these diseases, and connect germplasm to agronomic practices that promote cultivar performance and minimize disease incidence. False smut and kernel smut have been persistent diseases in experimental plots at the University of Arkansas Rice Research and Extension Center in Stuttgart, Arkansas. By exploiting natural occurrence and promoting disease incidence, cultivar performance and disease resistance were evaluated under a variety of management practices. The effects of fertilizer rate, crop rotation, tillage and irrigation practices on disease incidence and yield were evaluated. All treatments had significant effects on one or both diseases, but each disease responded independently to the treatments. Differences in kernel smut susceptibility were observed among cultivars, and fertility treatments were also significant for this disease. Fertility was also significant for false smut but cultivar differences were not observed. Tillage, rotation and irrigation were all significant treatments influencing cultivar susceptibility to false smut.