Molecular tools for controlling pathogenic viruses in the seed potato industry. In this project, molecular diagnostic tools will be generated that will improve the ability of testing laboratories to deliver cost-effective virus diagnostic services to seed potato certification authorities in Australia. There will be economic benefits from increased yields of fresh and processing potatoes, higher prices in domestic and export markets, expansion of current and development of new markets, and licen ....Molecular tools for controlling pathogenic viruses in the seed potato industry. In this project, molecular diagnostic tools will be generated that will improve the ability of testing laboratories to deliver cost-effective virus diagnostic services to seed potato certification authorities in Australia. There will be economic benefits from increased yields of fresh and processing potatoes, higher prices in domestic and export markets, expansion of current and development of new markets, and licensing of tests. There will also be economic and social returns to the broader rural community by better management and control of virus pathogens, and less reliance on environmentally undesirable chemical control measures. The project will provide expert training of two PhD students in practical and molecular plant virology. Read moreRead less
The contribution of beneficial arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi to sustainable tomato production in Australia. Formation of beneficial arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) by processing tomatoes has been used as an indicator of 'healthy soil' in an environmental monitoring audit of the industry in southern Australia, but field occurrence of the AM fungi and their potential contribution to tomato nutrition and productivity are not well understood. We will determine the responsiveness of widely-grown tomat ....The contribution of beneficial arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi to sustainable tomato production in Australia. Formation of beneficial arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) by processing tomatoes has been used as an indicator of 'healthy soil' in an environmental monitoring audit of the industry in southern Australia, but field occurrence of the AM fungi and their potential contribution to tomato nutrition and productivity are not well understood. We will determine the responsiveness of widely-grown tomato varieties to AM inoculation and relate colonisation in the field to farming practices. The results will determine the potential benefits of AM fungi to tomato crops, in the context of development of environmentally and economically sustainable practices both in Australia and overseas. Read moreRead less