Abstract
Ramularia collo-cygni (Rcc) is becoming an increasing problem for barley growers across Europe. However, the life
cycle of the pathogen is only slowly being elucidated. In this study, Rcc DNA was detected in a number of harvested
seed samples from 1999 to 2010, with mean levels peaking in winter barley samples in 2009. A number of experiments
were carried out to determine whether the pathogen could move from barley seed to seedlings, and also from seed
through the developing plant and into the subsequent generation of seed, both in controlled experiments and in field
trials. Results from testing of seed indicated that the fungus is widespread at the end of the growing season in harvested
grain samples and can be transmitted to developing plants from infected seed stock. Examination of infected seedlings
did not reveal the presence of spores but fungal structures were found within the leaf. The location of the fungus
within seed was examined, with Rcc DNA found in both embryo and non-embryo tissue. The implications for barley
production of the pathogen being seedborne are discussed.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 929 - 936 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | Plant Pathology |
Volume | 63 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Print publication - Aug 2014 |
Bibliographical note
1023370Keywords
- Controlled environment
- Field experiment
- PCR
- Pathogen movement
- Ramularia leaf spot
- Seed infection