Assessment of Rapeseed-Mustard Varieties for Resistance against White Rust (Albugo candida) Infection

Abstract

The increasing prominence of rapeseed-mustard on the global stage as vital oilseed crop is attributed to its high yield, low moisture requirements, cost effective production, and adoptability to diverse farming condition indicating the potential for a forthcoming yellow revolution role in India's oilseed production, facing challenges from various factors affecting yield and seed quality. Notably, white rust stands out as a significant biotic stressor, causing substantial losses in both yield and seedily, 17–34% yield particularly in oil content. To address this, utilizing resistant varieties is the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach for disease management. However, the available resistant sources are limited. In a recent study during the Rabi seasons of 2021-22 and 2022-23, thirty rapeseed mustard genotypes were assessed under white rust prevalent conditions. Out of 30 genotypes tested, none were found to be free of white rust disease infection and none were classified as resistant. However,11genotypes were registered as as moderately resistance, while, 19 genotypes fell under the were in the susceptible category. Promisingly, some genotypes exhibited resistance to white rust, offering potential for developing superior cultivars to effectively manage the disease in regions where mustard cultivation is prevalent. Aims: The study aimed to evaluate 30 rapeseed-mustard genotypes during the Rabi sessions of 2021-22 and 2022-23, focusing on their resistance to white rust. The primary objective was to identified genotypes with potential resistant traits, contributing to the development of superior cultivars for effective white rust management in regions where rapeseed-mustard cultivation is prominent. Study Design: Randomized Block Design. Place and Duration of Study:  Experimental field of the Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, BUAT, Banda session 2021-22 and 2022-23. Results and Conclusion: None of the tested genotypes were found to be entirely free from white rust infection, and none of these achieved under resistance. However, the study identified 11 genotypes as moderately resistance and 19 genotypes fell into the susceptible category. Despite the challenges posed by white rust, sum genotypes demonstrated resistance, offering promising potential for the development of advanced cultivars. This finding holds significant for regions where rapeseed-mustard cultivation faces the threat of white rust, providing the basis for future efforts enhancing crop resilience and productivity.