Diagnosis and Characterization of Fungal Mycoflora Associated with Wheat Seed Varieties at Ambo Agricultural Research Center, Ethiopia

Abstract

A plant is considered diseased when its normal physiological functions are disrupted, leading to reduced growth and productivity. Wheat (Triticum spp.) is one of the most widely cultivated cereal crops globally and serves as a staple food for a large population. However, its production is significantly affected by both biotic and abiotic constraints. Among the biotic factors, fungal mycoflora represent a major threat, causing considerable reductions in grain yield and quality. Accurate identification of both the disease and its causal organism is essential, as improper diagnosis may result in ineffective control measures, wasted resources, and increased losses. This study was conducted in 2021 at Ambo Agricultural Research Center with the aim of distinguishing fungal mycoflora-associated diseases in different wheat varieties by examining mycelial symptoms and identifying fungal structures using a compound microscope at various magnifications. A seed health test was carried out on three wheat varieties Bollo, Tsehai, and Menze using the agar plate method to assess seed health status. Seed samples were incubated and observed at 5-, 7-, and 9-days intervals. Mycelial growth was recorded for ten seeds per Petri dish, and germination as well as mean fungal incidence were calculated. The results from the agar plate method revealed the presence of fungal pathogens across all tested wheat varieties, with infection levels ranging from 40% to 100% during the observation periods. These findings highlight the significant presence of seed-borne fungal infections in wheat and emphasize the importance of routine seed health testing for effective disease management and improved crop productivity.