CURRENT STATUS OF THE SEPTORIA TRITICI BLOTCH OF WHEAT CAUSED BY Zymoseptoria tritici IN MEXICO

Abstract

Septoria tritici blotch, caused by Zymoseptoria tritici, is a disease that bring about important economic losses where wheat is grown around the world. Changes in cultural practices, such as minimum tillage, the irrational use of fungicides and the great genetic plasticity and reproductive capacity of the fungus are responsible, in part, for the development of new epiphytotics caused by this disease. Implementation of diverse strategies, such as crop rotation and crop debris removal are required for its management; however, the use of resistant varieties is the key to increase wheat productivity. Mexico has some commercial bread wheat varieties, which are moderately resistant to Septoria tritici blotch. The aim of this review was to discuss about the current status of Septoria tritici blotch in Mexico, to identify lines of research that will contribute to the management of the disease in the country.