Genetic variation for fusarium crown rot tolerance in durum wheat

Tolerance to the cereal disease Fusarium crown rot (FCR) was investigated in a set of 34 durum wheat genotypes, with Suntop, (bread wheat) and EGA Bellaroi (durum) as tolerant intolerant controls, series replicated field trials over four years inoculated (FCR-i) non-inoculated (FCR-n) plots genotypes. The genotypes included conventional lines derived from crossing 2–49, bread genotype highest level partial resistance FCR. A split plot trial design chosen optimize efficiency for prediction FCR tolerance each genotype. multi-environment (MET) analysis undertaken which indicated that there good repeatability across years. Based on an index, Suntop most very intolerant, but some wheats had indices were comparable Suntop. These V101030, TD1702, V11TD013*3X-63 DBA Bindaroi, well crosses 2–49 (V114916 V114942). correlation between FCR-n yield predictions moderately negative indicating it could be somewhat difficult develop FCR-tolerant are high yielding under low pressure. However, showed positive FCR-i seasons expression possible screen using only treatments. results first demonstration genetic diversity germplasm they provide basis breeding this trait.