RA3 PAPER: Variability in phosphite sensitivity

Variability in phosphite sensitivity observed within and between seven Phytophthora species

January 2022

Hunter S, McDougal R, Williams N, Scott P. 2022. Variability in phosphite sensitivity observed within and between seven Phytophthora species. Australasian Plant Pathology.

ABSTRACT

Phosphite is used to control and manage many phytophthora diseases in horticultural systems worldwide and natural ecosystems in Australia, Africa, New Zealand and parts of Northern America and Europe. Phosphite does not kill Phytophthora species, but inhibits growth while also stimulating host defence responses. Phytophthora species differ in their underlying tolerance to phosphite and isolates have been shown to acquire tolerance after prolonged exposure. Intra- and inter-specific variability in phosphite sensitivity is of interest to determine the efficacy and sustainability of phosphite for the treatment of phytophthora diseases, which continue to spread globally.

In this paper seven Phytophthora species were tested for their sensitivity to phosphite in vitro in a mycelial growth experiment, including Phytophthora agathidicida.

KEYWORDS

Phytophthora; Phosphite; Interspecific; Intraspecific Variability; Management