Inhibitory activity to Fusarium spp. and control potential for wheat Fusarium crown rot of a novel succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor cyclobutrifluram

Abstract

BACKGROUNDWheat Fusarium crown rot (FCR) is a serious problem primarily caused by Fusarium pseudograminearum, a pathogenic agent known to produce mycotoxins, including deoxynivalenol (DON). Cyclobutrifluram, a novel succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor devised by Syngenta, has immense potential to control both nematodes and Fusarium diseases. However, its efficacy in combating Fusarium species, its ability to prevent and reverse the detrimental effects of FCR, and its impact on the production of DON by F. pseudograminearum are yet to be fully ascertained.RESULTSCyclobutrifluram exhibited substantial inhibitory activity against Fusarium species, with half‐maximal effective concentration values ranging from 0.0021–0.0647 μg mL−1. It demonstrated significant inhibitory activity toward three developmental stages of F. pseudograminearum, F. graminearum and F. asiaticum. Furthermore, cyclobutrifluram showed both protective and curative activities against FCR and was rapidly absorbed by roots and transported to wheat stems and leaves. Cyclobutrifluram could also decrease DON production by F. pseudograminearum.CONCLUSIONThis investigation has revealed the potential of cyclobutrifluram as a formidable candidate fungicide, particularly in its ability to effectively combat FCR and other Fusarium‐related ailments. This novel compound has exceptional pathogen‐fighting capabilities, coupled with remarkable systemic translocation properties and a notable ability to reduce the production of DON. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.