Key message Haplotype-based nested association mapping conducted in Australian barley identified 30 haploblocks for resistance/susceptibility to net form of net blotch. Stacking multiple resistance haplotypes significantly reduced disease severity. Abstract Net form net blotch (NFNB), caused by Pyrenophora teres f. teres , is a major fungal disease affecting barley, leading to significant yield losses globally. Improving the s...

Sesame ( Sesamum indicum L.) is a globally important oilseed crop, but its production is constrained by charcoal rot, caused by the soil-borne fungus Macrophomina phaseolina. The pathogen’s exceptionally broad host range, long-term soil persistence through microsclerotia, and increased aggressiveness under high temperature and drought make charcoal rot a major destructive constraint in sesame-growing regions. This review integ...

Key message This study revealed the identification of a novel gene, Zm00001d042906 , that regulates maize ear length by modulating lignin synthesis and reported a molecular marker for selecting maize lines with elongated ears. Abstract Maize ear length has garnered considerable attention due to its high correlation with yield. In this study, six maize inbred lines of significant importance in maize breeding were used as parent...

Key message Sustainable control of fall armyworm (FAW) requires implementation of effective integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, with host plant resistance as a key component. Significant opportunities exist for developing and deploying elite maize cultivars with native genetic resistance and/or transgenic resistance for FAW control in both Africa and Asia. Abstract The fall armyworm [ Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith...