Improved pathogen management in crops using rapid in-field diagnostics

Controlling disease relies on early and accurate diagnosis informing timely and targeted intervention strategies. Good resistance management is based on minimising the levels of exposure of the target pathogen to the fungicide, only spraying where the risk warrants treatment. Knowledge of the resistance status of a field population will allow specific targeting of products avoiding use of ineffective treatments, maximising efficacy and longevity of active compounds. This multi-disciplinary project brings together agronomy services providers (Agrii) diagnostic providers (Optisense/GeneSys) and underpinning science (Fera) stakeholders to deliver a rapid, hand-held, in-field test for real-time monitoring of fungicide resistance strains of Mycosphaerella graminicola (Septoria tritici) within crops. The results of testing will directly inform the user on interventions using the correct fungicide to control the specific genotype of the pathogen present in the crop. This method will save money on ineffective spraying, improve yield, decrease losses, prevent build up of resistance and prolong the life of active chemicals and promote their responsible use improving environmental stewardship.