Seed-transmitted pathogens can reduce pulse yield and seed quality. Planting disease-free seeds is crucial to prevent the introduction of new diseases and to prevent the propagation of existing infestations in fields. Additionally, importing countries have varying acceptable thresholds for seed-transmitted pathogens, requiring exporting countries to test their seed lots to certify that they do not exceed these thresholds or that the pathogen is absent.
“One of the main diagnostic tests requested by growers is Ascochyta-Plus, which targets multiple seedborne diseases simultaneously. By requesting this test, growers will have information on the presence of Ascochyta Blight, White Mold, Gray Mold, Anthracnose, and Stemphylium Leaf Blight on their seeds. Nematode tests are also frequently requested when growers plan to export their seeds to other countries, such as India and China”. – quote from Dr. Raissa Debacker Moura, Assistant Professor and Director of the RPCDL