Genome-wide association study provides an opportunity to identify genetic resistance in canola varieties against Leptosphaeria maculans

Our intention is to find excellent resistance sources in the Canadian canola cultivars, and other available genotypes through field, greenhouse and lab research to enhance resistance. This will supplement the new resistance sources including novel R gene and quantitative resistance in canola against blackleg disease in Canada. It will also reduce it to become endemic and prevent epidemics, when the environmental conditions favor the pathogen in certain seasons (like the summer of 2021 when it was very dry across the prairies). The investment in this research will benefit the three interns through the training they will receive, and the opportunity to meet the growers and key players in industry. The partner organization which represents growers and industry, will benefit through the seed industry, canola industry, growers, stakeholders, and Canada’s economy. It will also help our canola to be exported without trade barriers due to plant pathogens.

Faculty Supervisor:

Dilantha Fernando;Zhongwei Zou

Student:

Partner:

Saskatchewan Canola Development Commission

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Agriculture

University:

University of Manitoba

Program: