Vol. 11, Special Issue 12 (2022)

Author(s):
Sowmya P, Naik VG and Naik VN

Abstract:
This study reports the results of a survey conducted in an important sericulture area in South India, collecting a fungus associated with charcoal root rot- M. phaseolina. A total of 35 strains were recovered from mulberry gardens from Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Telangana, showing varying degrees of disease severity. Isolates showed considerable variability in cultural, morphological and pathogenic traits but high RAPD and SSR Marker polymorphisms were recorded. PCR amplification of 44 RAPD primers generated 501 markers showed nearly similar genetic distance measures. Clustering based on both phenotypic and genotypic markers failed to correlate either the geographical distribution or pathogenicity of the isolates. Associations between markers and isolate virulence were established by stepwise multiple regression analysis, providing insight into genomic regions that contribute to fungal virulence. We conclude that the genetic diversity and diversity of fungi is high and therefore systematic approaches are needed for breeding for disease resistance in host plants.