In this section:
Pulse & Oilseed Pathology
The Pulse & Oilseed Pathology Group prides itself on delivering high quality information and solutions on disease resistance and disease management to commercial organisations and research funding bodies.
Consisting of scientists plus support technical staff, the Group's work is currently focused on the key pulses and oilseeds grown in Australian dryland cropping districts:
- field peas
- faba beans
- chickpeas
- lentils
- canola
In collaboration with the SARDI Field Crop Evaluation Unit and National Breeding Programs in SARDI and other institutes, diseases are screened and management systems are tested at numerous sites across South Australia.
With access to controlled environment growth rooms and state-of-the-art greenhouses, the Group has the equipment and skills to work on any pulse or oilseed crop grown throughout the world.
Rapid plant screening
The Group has developed unique systems to achieve variety disease screening techniques which are able to provide rapid and accurate:
- data collection
- data analysis
- client feedback.
This service is widely used by plant breeders throughout Southern Australia.
Disease management
Based on a sound understanding of disease pathogens, the Group develops and tests appropriate management strategies for commercial pulse and oilseed production.
Advisory services
The Group is able to provide technical advice to government, industry and producers using their knowledge of the latest in pulse and oilseed disease and management.
Partners and collaborators
Internal and external collaboration is a great strength that is being optimised by the Pulse & Oilseed Pathology Group.
In collaboration with the SARDI Diagnostics & Seed Testing Group, a DNA probe has been developed for identifying a series of diseases including Aschochyta rabiei of chickpeas, blackspot of peas and blackleg of canola.
External collaborations include work with Adelaide University and plant breeders and pathologists across Australia.
A series of plant disease models are being produced with CSIRO and Biometrics SA.
Key clients:
- Grains Research and Development Corporation
- South Australian Grains Industry Trust Fund
- farmers
- Agribusiness
- commercial seed companies
- seed merchants and exporters.
Current Research Projects
Publications
Contacts:
Jenny Davidson (Senior Research Officer)
Peas, faba beans, lentils
Phone (08) 8303 9389
Fax (08) 8303 9393
Email: jenny.davidson@sa.gov.au
