Response of durum wheat genotypes to rust in preliminary and regular yield trials

Wheat is the most important cereal crop in Pakistan because it contributes major portions of daily calorie intake. Rust is an increasing threat to wheat production and ultimately food security in Asian countries. The purpose of the present study is to identify the suitable wheat lines that could significantly resist rust pathogen without compromising yield. 60 durum wheat lines, entered in preliminary and regular yield trials, were tested for various morphological and physiological traits along with adult plant disease reaction under natural rust infestation. Results indicated that there was higher incidence of yellow rust as compared to leaf rust as ten genotypes were susceptible to leaf rust. Whereas seven lines were moderately susceptible, 14 were moderately resistant and two were completely susceptible to yellow rust. These findings suggested that future breeding program should be directed towards the developments of resistant cultivars that could resist variable strains of rust pathogen under changing climatic conditions.