Research
To properly understand the evolution and spread of fungicide resistance and to come up with meaningful and sustainable recommendations for management we must understand the underlying genetics of fungicide resistance development. Our lab is studying:
- genetic determinants conferring resistance
- mutations, deletions, insertions in genetic determinants leading to resistance
- expression patterns of genetic determinants and causes of overexpression
Management of fungicide resistance is a multipronged approach and involves several aspects we are also interested in. Those include (i) mixture and alternation of FRAC codes, (ii) the use of forecast models (Strawberry Advisory System; UFL) to reduce the number of applications (reduction of selection), (iii) use of biocontrol agents at low risk situations (reduction of selection), and (iv) information about fitness and competitive ability of resistant strains to exploit weaknesses.
