Screening of groundnut varieties/genotypes against collar rot of groundnut caused by Apergillus niger under green house condition

Abstract

Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is a major oilseed and legume crop of global economic and nutritional importance, widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. India ranks second in global production after China, with cultivation spread across major states including Gujarat, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. Despite its importance, groundnut productivity is severely constrained by various biotic stresses, particularly fungal diseases. Among these, collar rot caused by Aspergillus niger is one of the most destructive, leading to significant pre- and post-emergence seedling mortality. The present study aimed to screen 30 groundnut genotypes for resistance against A. niger under controlled pot conditions using the sick pot technique. Disease incidence was recorded and genotypes were categorized based on infection levels. Results revealed considerable variation in disease response among the genotypes. Varieties TMV-2, TAG-24, Dh-86, S-230, TDG-51, and TDG-41 were highly susceptible, whereas R-2001-3 exhibited strong resistance. Six genotypes, including ICGV-16690, ICGV-07360, GPBD-5, ICGV-00350, ICGV-03043, and Dh-257, were moderately resistant, while others showed moderate to high susceptibility. The identification of resistant and moderately resistant genotypes provides valuable material for breeding programs aimed at developing collar rot-resistant cultivars. Utilizing host plant resistance is an environmentally sustainable and economically viable strategy for managing collar rot in groundnut, ensuring improved yield stability and contributing to sustainable groundnut production in regions prone to A. niger infection.