Characterisation of the Grapevine Leaf Rust fungus and identification of resistant grape cultivars

Abstract

Prior to this project there had been preliminary investigations into the grapevine leaf rust pathogen, first discovered in Darwin in 2001 on grapevines largely grown by householders for use of leaves in making dolmades. Because it is a destructive disease in Asia and Central America, the Grape and Wine R&D Corporation saw fit to contribute to further research into identification and control.

Summary

Various laboratory methods were compared for their efficiency in growing out cultures for screening. Other research activities were DNA extraction to provide the ability to conduct DNA tracing of the identity and source of possible re-incursions, examination of 12 fungicides to rate their efficacy as control measures, and determination of the susceptibility or immunity of different cultivars.

While fungicides were found to be effective in systemic and protective modes, it was found that resistant vines (particularly for small backyard plantings) could provide the most sustainable management of leaf rust.

Although there are no commercial vineyards in the Darwin region there are large plantings of mainly tablegrapes about 200 Km north of Alice Springs. Although no infections have been found outside Darwin, the existence of these vineyards as a potential stepping stone for wider spread makes this research and the efforts to contain the disease vital.