Response of wheat genotypes against leaf rust (Puccinia triticina) under field conditions

Abstract

Leaf rust occurs worldwide wherever wheat is grown. The current research was planned to evaluate the response of 37 wheat (Triticum aestivum) genotypes against leaf rust resistance under field conditions during crop season 2017-18.These genotypes were sown in augmented design with two meter long line sowing method with 30 cm row to row distance at research area of Agricultural Biotechnology Research Institute (ABRI), Ayub Agricultural Research Institute (AARI), Faisalabad, Pakistan. After every five genotypes, a line of rust spreader “Morocco” was sown. Moreover, the trial was also surrounded by planting two rows of spreader to increase the inoculum pressure. Data was recorded on the basis of leaf rust severity scale. Leaf rust severity response was variable among tested genotypes. Out of thirty-seven genotypes, five wheat lines were immune (no disease symptoms) i.e. 17BT007, 17BT013, 16BT008, 16BT010 and 16BT011. Seven lines were found to be resistant with AUDPC vales ranged 1-199. Response of ten lines was moderately resistant while five lines were categorized as moderately susceptible. Ten genotypes exhibited susceptible response against leaf rust with more than 600 AUDPC value. High values above 600 of AUDPC showed greater incidence of leaf rust on wheat plants while lower AUDPC values indicated resistance to leaf rust. Present research provided the resistant wheat lines to the breeders to incorporate them in their breeding program against leaf rust.