Knowledge Center Catalog

Maize pathology

Jeffers, D.P.

Maize pathology - Mexico, DF (Mexico) CIMMYT : 2002 - p. 91-100 - Printed

Selection for resistance to the major diseases attacking maize is an integral part of germplasm improvement at CIMMYT. and provides yield stability in the presence of the pathogens. The Maize Program develops germplasm that combines as many desirable traits as possible. and beginning with the broad genetic background found in most CIMMYT pools and populations. the Program has generated agronomically superior germplasm with several disease resistance traits and other attributes. including resistance to insects or abiotic stresses. The constant challenges with regard to diseases can be met in part through use of the many useful sources of resistance within Program germplasm. Both natural and artificial inoculations are utilized to provide adequate disease pressure for the selection process. and the Agua Fría Experiment Station is a key location in the evaluation of maize for resistance to many important diseases found worldwide. In addition. climatic conditions present during the winter plantings allows for the development of pathogens commonly found at higher elevations and subtropical latitudes. and the Maize Program will utilize the "A" cycle to evaluate subtropical and transition zone maize for resistance to turcicum leaf blight. Table 1 presents the locations in Mexico where evaluations for disease resistance are performed. and it is clear that the Agua Fría Experiment Station is the most valuable location being utilized. The Tlaltizapán Experiment station is used for stalk and ear rot evaluations as well as advancement of germplasm for the evaluation in other locations. The pathology unit works closely with the Seed Health Unit and the Sanidad Vegetal representative to monitor seed production blocks for the preparation of seed destined for international trials were the majority of seed comes from nurseries at this location. El Batan is utilized for turcicum leaf blight and common rust evaluations in subtropical. transition zone and highland maize as well as Fusarium moniliforme ear rot evaluations for highland germplasm.


English


Climatic factors
Disease resistance
Fusarium moniliforme
Highlands
Inoculation methods
Maize
Plant diseases
Seed production
Plant breeding

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