Author(s): Divya, Siddarth N Rahul, Sushil Kumar Singh and Jitendra Kumar Tiwari

Abstract: The tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L), is a highly valued and widely grown vegetable crop that is both economically and nutritionally significant. However, its susceptibility to various pathogens, including Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, poses a significant threat to its cultivation. The purpose of this study was to assess the resistance of 47 tomato germplasm lines against at the A.N.D.U.A.T. in Kumarganj, Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh), sclerotinia stem rot disease is being observed in the field. The study utilized a comprehensive 0-9 scale for disease assessment, coupled with the calculation of percent disease index (PDI). Results indicated varying degrees of susceptibility among the germplasm lines, with none exhibiting complete resistance. Notably, five lines demonstrated moderate resistance, namely NDT-3, NDT-38, NDT-17, NDT-56, and NDT-6. These findings underscore the importance of breeding programs focused on developing resistant varieties to mitigate the impact of Sclerotinia stem rot. Given the limitations associated with fungicidal treatments, host plant resistance emerges as a promising strategy for disease management. The resistant lines that have been found provide important genetic resources for upcoming breeding projects that aim to increase tomato resistance to Sclerotinia Stem Rot. Ongoing field evaluations and further studies on tomato germplasm are recommended to sustainably address this persistent agricultural challenge.

DOI: 10.33545/26174693.2024.v8.i5g.1127