Skip to main content
ARS Home » Pacific West Area » Pullman, Washington » Grain Legume Genetics Physiology Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #260748
Title: Downy mildews

Author
item Chen, Weidong
item MANJARREZ-SANDOVAL, P - Instituto Nacional De Investigaciones Forestales Y Agropecuarias (INIFAP)

Submitted to: Compendium of Chickpea and Lentil Diseases and Pests
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 10/15/2010
Publication Date: 1/10/2011
Citation: Chen, W., Manjarrez-Sandoval, P. 2011. Downy mildews. Compendium of Chickpea and Lentil Diseases and Pests. p. 48-49.

Interpretive Summary: Downy mildew of chickpea and lentil is caused by fungi-like organisms belonging to Oomycota. The disease occur in many parts of the world. Although downy mildew is generally a minor disease, heavy losses may occur locally under cool and humid conditions. This chapter describes the occurrence, symptoms, causal organisms, and management practices.

Technical Abstract: Downy mildew of chickpea and lentil is caused by species of Peronospora. The disease occurs in many parts of the world. All aerial parts of plants are susceptible. Main symptoms include white mycelial patches on the lower leaf surface, and chlorotic to yellow spots develop on the upper surface. Peronospora lentis causes downy mildew of lentil. Peronospora ciceris causes downy mildew of chickpea. The pathogens may also infect some of the other legume species, and produce oospores that survive adverse conditions. Management practices include cultural methods and application of fungicides. Some cultivars of chickpea show resistance or tolerance to the disease.