Location: Sustainable Agricultural Systems Laboratory
Project Number: 8042-12120-002-003-S
Project Type: Non-Assistance Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Sep 25, 2023
End Date: Sep 24, 2027
Objective:
The objectives are as follows:
1. Genomic investigation with near chromosome- and mitochondria-length annotation of 13 anastomosis groups (AGs) / sub-groups of Rhizoctonia solani affecting agricultural crops,
2. Transcriptomic analyses to understand virulence of R. solani and susceptibility/resistance of crops, and
3. Annotation/update of RsolaniDB molecular database (https://rsolanidb.kaust.edu.sa/RhDB/) and identification of AG/sub-AG specific molecular markers for accurate pathogen identification.
Approach:
ARS will acquire the basic biological knowledge on identification and pathogenicity of Rhizoctonia pathogens of agricultural crops. This information will be used by the cooperator to jointly decipher molecular mechanisms of Rhizoctonia pathogenicity and develop accurate, genome-based, and AG group and sub-group specific molecular identification probes. In the long run, selective probes will be used for taxon-specific DNA-based sampling procedures to quantify Rhizoctonia inoculum levels in soil and on seedlings. Based on this knowledge, the cooperator will develop improved detection and elimination of invasive pests and improved disease control strategies of agricultural crops, bulb and cut flowers.
