Growth and light interception in field bean (Vicia faba) infected by Ascochyta fabae

Abstract

SummaryThe effects of inoculation by Ascochyta fabae Speg. on growth and light interception in field bean (Vicia faba L.) were studied. Measurements were made in a field trial using cv. Ticol, a cultivar vulnerable to this disease during early vegetative growth and at the beginning of the flowering stage. Infection reduced leaf area duration, light interception and dry matter yield of energy (light use efficiency) and, consequently, the dry matter production of the crop. Reductions in seed yield ranged from 12 to 30% compared with a prophylactic fungicide treatment.