Combatting Fusarium wilt in lettuce: molecular diagnostics and control strategies

Hanna Mestdagh (PhD researcher)

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lactucae (Fol), responsible for wilting and vascular browning in lettuce, has been spreading rapidly in Europe, causing mayor yield losses. The persistence of Fol is largely due to its production of chlamydospores, resilient spores that survive long periods in the soil. Increased hygiene measures have not effectively reduced its spread. Additionally, the absence of commercially viable resistant lettuce varieties and the reduced use of chemicals have left no efficient method to combat Fol contamination. Our research focusses on a better understanding of the pathogen to aid in its control. Molecular diagnostic techniques have been developed to quantify Fol in greenhouses and monitor its spread within and between farms. These assays are also used to evaluate the effectiveness of control methods, such as crop rotation and soil fumigation.