New research sheds light on fusarium head blight resistance levels of spring wheat varieties

Yesterday, CANTERRA SEEDS brought attention to a new research study from Manitoba Agriculture that shows the Fusarium Head Blight (FHB) resistance levels in spring wheat, may be different than the official ratings.

The researchers, which includes Holly Derksen, Pam de Rocquigny and Craig Linde, set out to evaluate how spring wheat varieties tested post-registration in the Manitoba Crop Variety Evaluation Trials (MCVET) responded to natural infections of FHB. They measured DON and FDK from harvest samples of 72 different spring wheat varieties, at 14 MCVET sites, over six years (2009-2015).

Full results of the study can be found here. http://canterra.com/images/uploads/general/CWFHB-P39-Derksen_shrunk.pdf

The study points to the importance of comparing pre- and post-registration data for disease ratings. Currently, varieties with improved resistance to FHB are available in Manitoba, but the three-year testing presented in SEED MANITOBA provides only a limited comparison to other varieties, and over a limited number of locations.

AAC Cameron VB, marketed by CANTERRA SEEDS, was assigned an 'Intermediate' rating to FHB at registration. However, the study shows this variety has the lowest mean FDK and DON when compared to all other CWRS wheat varieties tested. As the researchers say "It is important to evaluate disease resistance of varieties pre- and post-registration. Multi-year multi-site data will increase accuracy in predicting variety reaction to FHB."

"We are encouraged by these research results," said Rick Love, Pedigreed Seed Business Manager for CANTERRA SEEDS. "It shows the importance of comparing multiple years of data when making a variety selection for your farm. AAC Cameron VB is an excellent CWRS variety, and we're excited by these new FHB findings."

AAC Cameron VB is a midge-tolerant CWRS variety, and is one of the top yielding in the Manitoba and Saskatchewan seed guides in 2017. More information on AAC Cameron VB, including performance and seed availability can be found by visiting www.canterra.com.

As a western Canadian seed company, CANTERRA SEEDS is committed to sourcing genetically superior seed products that deliver agronomic and economic benefits for producers, while meeting end-user needs. With a versatile portfolio of cereals, pulses and oilseeds, CANTERRA SEEDS seeks opportunities that allow for mutual success in the agriculture industry.