Research Objective
To identify genetic variation for root rot resistance from a core collection of diverse pea germplasm lines.
Objective 4To develop innovative tools to support producer decision-making for pea and lentil cropping in the field.
To identify genetic variation for root rot resistance from a core collection of diverse pea germplasm lines; to accurately predict root rot disease resistance of pea with genomics prediction and machine learning (ML); to develop capacity to evaluate Fusarium solani.; to develop innovative tools to support producer decision-making for pea and lentil cropping in the field; to identify key environmental and site-specific factors that drive root rot development.
The threat of root rot diseases for pea and lentil production has been intensifying since 2012/13, when Aphanomyces euteiches was first reported in Saskatchewan and Alberta. Management is complicated because pea root rot is caused by a complex of multiple soil-borne organisms with Aphanomyces euteiches, Fusarium and Pythium species predominant. The combination of crop rotation, agronomic practices, and chemical and genetic resistance are theoretically the most effective means to control root rot in pea, but in practicality, very few of these management tools are available. The objectives of this project are to evaluate a wide range of pea germplasm lines for potential sources of genetic resistance, develop new tools for root rot phenotyping, and gather information on root rot risk factors from the field. The first year of the project involved preliminary assessment of field disease nurseries to assess 60 pea germplasm lines and combine this information with genetic sequencing. Broad spectrum root rot resistance quantitative trait loci (QTL) were identified, and these could be promising targets for resistance breeding efforts. The first step in developing a quantitative root rot rating tool using hyperspectral imaging was achieved on a small set of plants and will be expanded and further tested in the second year. Controlled environmental facilities to screen Fusarium solani were identified and permits for this pathogen were obtained. Finally, fields in Alberta and Manitoba were identified for in- depth studies of environmental risk factors and will be further studied in years 2 – 4 of the project. Progress was made in all the year one milestones.