Lethbridge researchers are on the front lines in the battle against tan spot.
Tan spot disease is a fungal infection that has emerged as one of the most destructive diseases affecting wheat crops globally. Researchers in Canada, who have a long history of studying wheat dating back to the late 1800s, are now at the forefront of efforts to combat this disease.
Tan spot, caused by the fungus Pyrenophora triticirepentis, was first identified about 50 years ago and has since spread worldwide, becoming a significant threat to wheat production. The disease manifests as tan-coloured lesions on the leaves of infected wheat plants, which can severely impair the plant’s ability to photosynthesize, stunt growth, and drastically reduce yield and grain quality. In severe cases, tan spot can reduce wheat yields by as much as 60% and lead to red smudge, a discoloration of the grain that diminishes its market value.
The fungus thrives in wet conditions, and with spring rains creating ideal conditions for infection, the disease is a persistent challenge for farmers. While fungicides are commonly used to manage the disease, the ongoing evolution of the pathogen necessitates continued research into more effective strategies and the development of resistant wheat varieties.
A team of researchers at AAFC in Lethbridge is spearheading a national and international collaboration to understand the global evolution of tan spot disease and develop strategies to curb its impact. Led by Reem Aboukhaddour at the AAFC Lethbridge Research and Development Centre, the team includes experts from across Canada and partners in Europe, North and South America, North Africa, India, Japan and Australia.
The researchers are using advanced techniques in genomics, pathology, and bioinformatics to analyze the genetic makeup of the pathogen and track how disease-causing genes have evolved across different strains. By studying mutations, duplications, and transposons — ”jumping genes” that can move within or between genomes — the team is uncovering the mechanisms behind the pathogen’s virulence and identifying new forms of the fungus that pose increased risks to wheat crops, including durum wheat in Canada.
“It’s so important to get a clear picture of how the pathogen that causes tan spot disease is evolving. This will help us spot trends, environmental conditions, and other factors that enable the disease to thrive, and hopefully discover solutions that help manage it effectively,” Aboukhaddour says.
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