In southern Alberta, scientists are actively researching tan spot disease, a persistent fungal infection that affects wheat crops in Canada, causing significant financial losses to farmers annually. Dr. Reem Aboukhaddour, leading a global collaboration at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s research lab in Lethbridge, is delving into the mechanisms of this disease.
Tan spot disease, characterized by tan-coloured lesions on wheat leaves, though not the most destructive, poses a consistent challenge to growers due to its widespread presence. The economic impact of this disease is substantial, with wheat generating over $50 billion in revenue in Western Canada in 2022, supporting numerous jobs.
Aboukhaddour’s team has made recent breakthroughs in understanding how tan spot spreads and infects plants, aiming to develop disease-resistant wheat variants. The disease’s virulence factors, which enable it to evade a plant’s defense system, are still not fully understood, but researchers have identified key characteristics such as its spread through spores and resilience in various growing conditions.
Tan spot, part of the leaf spot complex, remains a significant threat to wheat farmers, as it infects all major strains of wheat cultivated in Canada. Effective management strategies, including crop rotation and fungicide use, are crucial in combating this disease. Farmers like Stephen Vandervalk emphasize the importance of genetic resistance in preventing tan spot outbreaks and reducing reliance on fungicides.
While fungicides are commonly used, there are concerns about their long-term effectiveness and the potential development of resistance in the disease. Researchers stress the need for ongoing vigilance and proactive measures within the agricultural community to address emerging challenges promptly and effectively.
