Genetic Diversity of <i>Fusarium solani</i> f. sp. <i>cucurbitae</i>, the Causal Root and Crown Rot of Cucurbits (Melon) by Using Molecular Markers and Control

Abstract

Detection of F. solani f. sp. cucurbitae causal agent of the crown and root rot disease of melon race 1, race 2 is difficult. It is based only on morphological characteristic. In this study, forty isolates identified as Fusarium solani based on morphological characterization, F. solani was one of the most frequently isolated species. Molecular identification of these isolates by PCR technique using species-specific primer, indicated that thirty-two isolates, amplified product 580 bp (race 1) and two isolate amplified product 580 bp (race 2), while six isolates were not amplified with primer of both races. Production of Trichothecenes (T2-toxen, DON.) by Fusarium solani was conducted on isolates confirmed as belonging in the F. solani by PCR. The results indicated that the presence of Tri5, Tri13 genes is coding the ability of synthesis mycotoxin. In vitro, the results indicated that NPs (AgNPs, MgNPs) and chemical (Phylex) possess the antifungal properties against at various level. Treatment with (AgNPs 150 ppm, MgNPs 2%, 3% ppm) and 3% Phylex resulted in maximum inhabitation of F. solani. In vivo, five characters (height plant, hoot ant root fresh and dry weight) were measured based on the greenhouse, field experimental results. Treatment with (AgNPs, MgNPs) and Phylex had higher measured parameters than positive control.