Baseline Fungicide Resistance – Apple Scab
Apple scab, caused by the fungus Venturia inaequalis, has been present in WA for several years, but distribution is restricted. This is partially due to the regular application of fungicides, slowing the spread of the disease within the state. However, the resilience on fungicides for control from the same mode of action group increases the likelihood of resistance developing. This is of concern as V. inaequalis is considered by world authorities to be ranked in the top 12 organisms for developing fungicide resistance.
The aim of this project is to develop an understanding as to the baseline level of key fungicides within the WA population of apple scab to provide growers with knowledge about the efficacy of their current programs.
This project will provide apple growers direct information as to whether their current spray programs for apple scab are still providing effective control or whether other options need to be investigated. Isolates will be placed in storage for reference material to be used in future work as new chemistries are developed and registered. The project will help establish a direct link between the apple industry and researchers leading fungicide resistance research at the national level. This interaction will provide the apple industry with access to fungicide resistance management tools already developed for other crops. All data will be coded so as individual orchards will be unidentifiable.