Cotton Varieties Resistant to the Fusarium Wilt
February 29, 2008| |
The US Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is offering cotton lines resistant to the Fusarium wilt, a devastating disease severely reducing cotton yields in the country. It is caused by a soil borne fungus that clogs the plant’s vascular system, disrupting water and nutrient transport. There are currently four Fusarium races in the US. The disease was first reported in California in 2001.
ARS scientists have developed four new kinds of Fusarium-resistant plants that produce pima cotton—the kind that is processed into premium fabrics for upscale apparel or for bedding, towels, and other home products. The scientists are also screening upland cotton varieties for resistance to the fungus. Upland cotton offers excellent, less expensive fibers.
In Australia, where Fusarium wilt is more prevalent, annual yield loss is estimated at US$ 100 million.
The press release is available at http://www.ars.usda.gov/News/docs.htm?docid=1261
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