ABCSEM launches project for monitoring downy mildew in lettuce

The Brazilian Association of Seed and Seedling Trade (ABCSEM) launched the Bremia Project to monitor downy mildew races (Bremia lactucae Regel) and develop resistant lettuce cultivars. 

The Bremia Project, which combats one of the main diseases affecting lettuce crops in Brazil and worldwide, was presented during Hortitec 2024, with special coverage by AgroPages.

The initiative, considered innovative, was conducted in partnership with the São Paulo State University (UNESP) and the Foundation for Research, Teaching, and Extension Support (FUNEP).

According to ABCSEM, downy mildew can devastate entire plantations and bring enormous economic losses to producers. Therefore, the Association states that developing resistant cultivars contributes to safer production with healthier foods and increases the sustainability of cultivation.

According to ABCSEM Executive Secretary Mariana Barreto, "the entity is committed to developing solutions that positively impact the entire lettuce production chain, and the Bremia Project is a clear example of how collaboration between academic institutions and the private sector can bring significant advances to horticulture."

The initiative arose from a demand from ABCSEM members in 2023, creation a Working Group dedicated to addressing lettuce downy mildew. The project involves ten associated companies: Agristar, BASF, Bejo, Blue Seeds, East-West, Enza Zaden, Feltrin, Rijk Zwaan, Sakata, Seminis/Bayer.

Currently, the research is in the sample collection phase in the main lettuce-producing regions of Brazil. The next step involves identifying and differentiating Bremia lactucae races in the laboratory.

Accurate identification of different races will allow the development of more resistant cultivars, directly benefiting producers and consumers. 

photo by Gustavo Takeshi - Enza Zaden

"With the implementation of this project, we hope not only to improve lettuce production quality but also to ensure greater phytosanitary security, reducing losses and increasing productivity," Mariana said. Implementing the Bremia Project brings several significant contributions to sustainability and innovation in the sector, she added.

The main one is increased productivity: with resistant cultivars, losses due to diseases decrease, resulting in higher productivity and stability for farmers. Additionally, the project increases "genetic innovation," driving innovation in research and development of new plant breeding techniques, putting Brazil at the forefront of agricultural science. 

Finally, Bremia reduces the use of agrochemicals. By developing downy mildew-resistant lettuce varieties, farmers can significantly reduce the use of fungicides, contributing to more sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices.

At the Hortitec stand, visitors could learn more about ABCSEM's Bremia Project, explore other innovative initiatives and interact with representatives from sector institutions.

(Editing by Leonardo Gottems, reporter for AgroPages)