Chickpea Ascochyta – is the pathogen changing?

Abstract

Key findings • Ascochyta blight occurred in more chickpea crops in the northern region in 2014 than in 2012 and 2013 combined. Most infected crops were PBA HatTrick[PBR] but this is also the most commonly grown variety. • Infections in 2014 arose from inoculum in diseased chickpea stubble and infected volunteers. • Research confirmed the fungus varies in its pathogenic ability but there was no evidence it has changed in response to the widespread cultivation of PBA HatTrick[PBR]. • In localities where Ascochyta was found in 2014, growers are advised to apply an early season preventative fungicide to all 2015 chickpea crops including PBA HatTrick[PBR].