A Decade of Variety Testing for Resistance of Red Clover to Southern Anthracnose (Colletotrichum trifolii Bain et Essary) at the Bavarian State Research Center for Agriculture (LfL)

Southern anthracnose is caused by the fungal pathogen Colletotrichum trifolii Bain et Essary and affects red clover (Trifolium pratense) cultivation, causing severe losses in plant stands. Artificial inoculation with greenhouse has been proven to effectively differentiate varieties for their resistance based on survival rates of plants. Additionally, this method was successfully used improve populations via recurrent selection. However, not much yet known its association behavior field. In study, results from 10 years artificial trials at Bavarian State Research Center Agriculture were analyzed compared official German variety descriptions that are field data. A good congruency between susceptibility ratings observed. Thus, data tests have great potential complement lists where gaps exist. It shown within only three generations selection using test, an existing could be significantly improved terms without changing DUS characteristics. continuously increasing level registered Germany since 2005 indicates breeders can respond threat imposed relatively new disease.