Pisum sativum microsymbiont and cultivar dependend resistance against Didymella pinodes

What is it about?

Pisum sativum is the main host of the Ascochyta blight desease and significant yield losses are recorded globally every year. The causing pathogen in this fungi complex is known to be Didymella pinodes. The scientists found that microsymbionts (rhizobia or mycorrhiza) have a strong influence on the metabolism and hence the phenotype of the host plant. As a result, Rhizobium-symbiosis inhibited infestation and impact of the pathogen on the plant by leading to a better plant growth and yield performance than e.g. nitrogen fertilization itself. However, mode of action and effectiveness depend on symbiont as well as pea cultivar.

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Why is it important?

This work has substantially contributed to a comprehensive insight into the different pathogen defense strategies of pea plants and the potential of microsymbionts for improved agricultural bio-contro for legumes. Future beeding strategies in legumes should implement Rhizobium application in order to reduce N-fertilization. However, depending on strain, cultivar and e.g. soil conditions (pH and salt content e.g. nitrogen, sulfate or NaCl...) this may be more or less successful. More research is neede.

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