ICRISAT scientists identify genes for stem rot resistance in groundnut

ICRISAT scientists have identified 13 genomic regions and 145 candidate genes for stem rot resistance in groundnut. The breakthrough paves the way for breeding disease-resistant varieties, promising higher yields, lower losses and improved incomes for millions of farmers worldwide

Sangareddy: A study published in the Plant Genome journal has identified 13 genomic regions and 145 candidate genes linked to stem rot resistance in groundnut. The discovery by the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) and its partners is expected to open new opportunities for breeding disease-resistant varieties, significantly reducing risks for farmers.

Groundnut, an oilseed as well as a protein-rich legume, is grown on more than 30 million hectares across the world with an annual production of about 50 million metric tonnes. It plays a key role in diets, incomes and trade in Asia and Africa, with India, Nigeria and China together accounting for the bulk of global supply.

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Stem rot, caused by the soil-borne fungus Sclerotium rolfsii, remains one of the most serious threats to groundnut farmers.

ICRISAT Director General Dr Himanshu Pathak said the breakthrough had the potential to save farmers and national economies hundreds of millions of dollars each year by cutting yield losses from the disease. “Fungicides provide only partial control and are environmentally unsustainable. Genomics-led breeding offers a durable, cost-effective solution,” he said.

According to ICRISAT, improved varieties developed through this approach would mean higher and more stable yields, ensuring better incomes and food security for millions of smallholder families.

The study was carried out in collaboration with the ICAR–Indian Institute of Groundnut Research, the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences and Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University, with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research.