Disease Parameters and Identification of Chickpea Root Rot Disease Associated with Rhizoctonia Species

Authors : Ali Endes, Bekir Aktaş

Pages : 35-44

Doi:10.59128/bojans.1728320

View : 45 | Download : 24

Publication Date : 2025-07-02

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Chickpea is a legume rich in protein and is very important for nutritional balance and vegetarian diets. However, it experiences significant yield losses due to fungal-based pathogens, and more than 25 fungal disease agents worldwide affect chickpeas. This situation requires a comprehensive understanding of the regional etiology and epidemiology of chickpea diseases. This study aimed to understand the regional epidemiology and etiology of this disease agent in order to develop strategies to combat soil-borne Rhizoctonia spp. For this reason, a survey study was carried out in 14 districts of Yozgat to determine the Rhizoctonia spp. that cause chickpea root rot disease. Isolation studies were carried out from 690 plants from a total of 138 chickpea fields throughout Yozgat. As a result of survey studies, disease incidence throughout Yozgat varied between approximately 7% and 35%. On the other hand, disease severity varied between approximately 13% and 38%. The obtained Rhizoctonia spp. were identified by molecular methods as well as morphological characteristics. A total of 137 Rhizoctonia spp. were collected in isolation studies, and 67 of these isolates were identified as R.solani and 70 as R. bataticola. As a result of pathogenicity studies, it was revealed that the virulence levels of R.solani and R. bataticola pathogens are quite similar to each other. The study recommends conducting regular survey studies to determine the incidence of Rhizoctonia root rot in chickpea cultivation. Thus, timely measures will be taken for sustainable and disease monitoring in chickpea production areas.
Keywords : Cicer arietinum, Incidence, Severity, Rhizoctonia bataticola, Rhizoctonia solani

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