Virulence of Rhynchosporium commune isolates collected in Iceland

Abstract Various fungal species continue to be one of the most difficult challenges faced by farmers, and hence societies in whole, when it comes securing plentiful wholesome food for a rapidly growing human population. Understanding biology pathogenic fungi detail, both at population molecular levels, combined with continued emphasis on resistance breeding important crops, offers obvious sustainable solution this pressing problem. Here we present results virulence testing microsatellite analysis collection Icelandic Rynchosporium commune isolates test whether previously demonstrated genetic diversity observed translated into functional these isolates. Our show considerable R. samples each isolate having unique spectrum 15 near-isogenic barley lines used screening. findings have practical implications, showing that even short continuous cultivation isolation geographical distance, Icelandic, likely other remote or isolated locations, still needs consider importance disease decisions variation local pathotypes. Moreover, our is first step focused conditions, an ongoing project.