ARCHIVES
VOL. 8, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Advances in screening and breeding for resistance to late leaf spot and rust in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
Authors
A Rupa, B Rupesh Kumar Reddy, R Narasimhulu, M Pradeep
Abstract
Systematic disease screening is essential for identifying resistant
sources against two major foliar diseases late leaf spot (LLS) and rust responsible
for severe yield losses in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) worldwide.
These pathogens reduce green leaf area, promote premature defoliation and
adversely affect photosynthesis, resulting in substantial pod yield decline
under favorable environmental conditions. Comprehensive screening under natural
field conditions, artificial epiphytotic setups and controlled greenhouse
environments has revealed wide variability in disease response among germplasm
accessions, breeding lines and segregating populations. Evaluations of mini core
collections, recombinant inbred lines and MAGIC populations have facilitated
the identification of moderately resistant and resistant genotypes using
standardized disease scoring scales. Artificial inoculation, infector rows and
staggered sowing techniques help ensure uniform disease pressure and reliable
phenotypic assessment. Quantitative parameters such as incubation period,
lesion size, percent defoliation and area under disease progress curve (AUDPC)
improve selection accuracy compared to visual scoring alone. Recent advances in
molecular screening, including allele-specific and KASP markers linked to
resistance loci, enable early and precise identification of resistant genotypes.
The integration of phenotypic and molecular approaches enhances selection
efficiency and supports the development of stable, high-yielding,
disease-resistant groundnut cultivars across diverse agro-climatic regions.
Download
Pages:235-238
How to cite this article:
A Rupa, B Rupesh Kumar Reddy, R Narasimhulu, M Pradeep "Advances in screening and breeding for resistance to late leaf spot and rust in groundnut (<i>Arachis hypogaea</i> L.)". International Journal of Agriculture and Plant Science, Vol 8, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 235-238
Download Author Certificate
Please enter the email address corresponding to this article submission to download your certificate.