Pyrenophora tritici-repentis: A Worldwide Threat to Wheat

Abstract

The necrotrophic fungus Pyrenophora tritici-repentis is the causal agent of tan spot of wheat, also known as yellow spot. Tan spot is one of the main foliar diseases of wheat, responsible for significant yield loss worldwide. To improve tan spot management, genetic control has been investigated and resistance in some cultivars improved; however, the complexity of the pathosystem wheat - P. tritici-repentis makes integrated disease management strategies very important. In this chapter, we provide an overview of the current state of knowledge of tan spot, including a basic understanding of characterization, pathogenicity, population biology, the global distribution of races, and the genetics of the wheat - P. tritici-repentis interaction. Furthermore, we describe several strategies that can be employed to control tan spot including, seed sanitation, cultural practices, fungicide and biological controls, as well as complementary alternative measures such as fertilization for efficient disease management in wheat production systems.