Why is this research important for Alberta ag?
Blackleg, caused by the fungal pathogen Lepthosphaeria maculans, is one of the most serious diseases of canola. In the 1990s and 2000s, the disease was managed largely by using major/qualitative-type host resistance, extended crop rotations, and the application of fungicides.
Recent canola disease surveys from western Canada have reports significant increases in the occurrence, incidence, and the severity of blackleg due to a shift in the prevalent avirulence (Avr) genes of the pathogen. This was because race-specific (Rlm) genes, which have been widely used in canola breeding programs, are effective against a limited number of Avr genes of the pathogen.
To identify more durable quantitative-type resistance resources, a diverse set of 400-500 Brassica accessions originating from 30 countries will be assessed for blackleg symptoms on seedlings and adult plants in replicated greenhouse experiments and across various Alberta nurseries.
The quantitative resistance sources and markers identified in this study could be used in breeding blackleg-resistant canola cultivars.
What benefits can producers expect from this research?
Improved management of blackleg will increase revenue for canola growers, industry, and government.
This project directly addresses Alberta Canola and Manitoba Canola Growers' top research priority for 2025 — to explore innovative/sustainable blackleg resistance strategies.
How will these research findings reach producers on-farm?
Researchers will help disseminate findings to canola producers and industry by organizing extension activities during field days, CanoLab, and other events.
Findings will also be published in peer-reviewed journals and general audience journals.
Project progress reports and results will be shared through presentations at scientific meetings, grower and stakeholder meetings, field days, and publications.
Funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Alberta under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative.