Investigation of population dynamics of FHB-causing Fusarium in relation to species, chemotypes (and possibly the NX2) in rotation of crops in Ontario

Objectives:

• To investigate changes in the Fusarium head blight (FHB) Fusarium populations in relation to species and chemotypes (including possibly NX2) in rotational crops in Ontario.

Impacts:

• Provide essential information for farmers to develop effective management strategies for FHB. Understanding the composition of FHB pathogen populations is crucial, as different populations may be targeted selectively. Therefore, the study’s findings aim to assist farmers in customizing management decisions to better achieve their crop production goals.
• The results of the project will assist breeders in developing varieties resistant to relevant FHB pathogen species and chemotypes.

Scientific Summary:

Fusarium head blight (FHB), caused primarily by Fusarium graminearum (Fg), poses a significant threat to cereal agriculture in Ontario, affecting wheat, barley, oat, and corn. While previous studies identified the 15-acetyl deoxynivalenol (15-ADON) genotype as dominant, a significant gap in follow-up research exists. There is concern that evolving pathogen populations—potentially driven by changing weather and intensive farming practices, as seen with the rise of F. poae in Alberta—may render current management strategies ineffective. This study, spanning 2025–2028, will evaluate the current species composition and chemotype diversity of FHB pathogens in Ontario to predict toxin accumulation, understand pathogen adaptation, and inform new, effective management strategies.

External Funding Partners:

This work was supported in part by Mitacs through the Mitacs Accelerate Program.