Host range and physiologic specialization in Rhynchosporium secalis

Abstract

The pathogenic variability of isolates of R. secalis collected in Western Australia has been examined on different host genera of the Gramineae and on selected barley cultivars. Depending on the host-isolate combination and the conditions of the test, evidence has been obtained of inter- and intra-isolate variability in both host reaction and isolate pathogenicity. This complicates definitive interpretation of the results, militates against identification of conventional 'races' of the pathogen and shows that R. secalis does not exhibit strict host specialization. Hosts which consistently express resistance or susceptibility under different environmental conditions, and isolates which express their pathogenic characteristics consistently, have been identified. The need for more precise genetic studies and adequate sampling of genetic diversity is emphasized.