Source: CropLife International Plant Science Post – August 2016

The stem rust fungus ‘Ug99’ is one of the greatest threats to global wheat production today. It has been called the “polio of agriculture” due to its virulence and far and fast reach. This wind-traveling mutant strain produces millions of spores – all of which can cause infection. Fungicides are very effective in controlling Ug99 but plant scientists are also working on resistant wheat varieties. Dr. Sridhar Bhavani, wheat breeder, pathologist and international coordinator for stem rust research in East Africa at the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center’s (CIMMYT’s) regional office in Nairobi, Kenya explains his work in combatting Ug99. Continue reading…