Stagonospora nodorum blotch (SNB) is a significant fungal disease of Western Australia that is becoming an increasing problem in the southern regions of Australia. Although fungicides can control epidemics, application requires specific timing to be effective and add significantly to on-farm costs. An alternative strategy is to develop new varieties with enhanced SNB resistance, but this relies on knowledge of the genetic inheritance and how best to manipulate resistance in commercial wheat breeding.

This project aims to validate the effectiveness of existing and new sources of resistance relevant to Australian grain production environments using new technologies and methodologies that will track and evaluate resistance in commercial breeding. A key feature of the project is the development of resources for improving SNB resistance in the GRDC's western region and transferring resources and capabilities to support the development of SNB resistant wheat for the southern regions of Australia.