Physiological and genetic basis of 'Phytophthora' disease resistance in Sturt's desert pea, 'Swainsona formosa' (G.Don) J. Thompson (Fabaceae)

Abstract

The susceptibility of Sturt's desert pea ('Swainsona formosa'), an ornamental legume with red, pink and white flowers, to fungal root pathogens such as 'Phytophthora cinnamomi', acts as a constraint to large-scale commercial production. Developing lines resistant to such pathogens is the most desirable method of control, as chemical control often results in chemical resistance or tolerance, and environmental pollution. Observations from the 'S. formosa' breeding program at the University of New England suggested that the white and pink lines may be more susceptible to root disease than the more common red line. Therefore, the objectives of this project were to establish whether a link exists between flower colour and resistance to 'P. cinnamomi', to identify any biochemical or physiological mechanisms of resistance to 'P. cinnamomi', and to determine whether it is possible to breed white or pink-flowered lines resistant to some common soilborne diseases.