Biotech Updates

Study Into New Fungus to Shape Pea Disease Strategies

April 1, 2011

A detailed study on spore germination and fungal growth of the causal pathogen of the blackspot disease of field peas is being undertaken at the University of Adelaide, Australia. The disease is caused by Phoma koolunga and it has already spread across South Australia and has been detected in other parts of the country.

Research student Amanda Benger found that the optimum temperatures for spore germination and mycelial growth is 15 to 25 C. Preliminary observations also showed longer periods of leaf wetness increases disease severity. It is hoped that the outcome of the project could improve understanding of the fungus and the role it plays in the blackspot complex on field peas.

The original article can be viewed at  http://www.grdc.com.au/director/events/mediareleases?item_id=EB6CAA4AAA2956247234A80DEC8A421B&pageNumber=1