Pathogenic Specialization of Venturia nashicola, Causal Agent of Asian Pear Scab, and Resistance of Pear Cultivars Kinchaku and Xiangli

Scab, caused by Venturia nashicola is one of the most serious diseases of Asian pears including Japanese pear (Pyrus pyrifolia var. culta) and Chinese pears (P. bretschneideri and P. ussuriensis). Breeding of scab-resistant pear cultivars is essential to minimize the use of fungicides and the risk of fungicide resistance developing in the pathogen. A survey of pathogenic specialization in V. nashicola is needed to ensure durable scab resistance in cultivated pears. Race 1, 2, and 3 isolates of V. nashicola, each differing in pathogenicity to Japanese pear cv. Kousui and Asian pear strain Mamenashi 12, have been reported from Japan. In the present study, isolates collected from scabbed pears in China and Taiwan were classified as V. nashicola based on conidial size and mating ability. However, various isolates were found to have pathogenicity distinct from races 1, 2, and 3 in tests on seven differential host genotypes: Kousui; Mamenashi 12; Chinese pear cvs. Jingbaili, Yali, Linyuli, Nanguoli; and Taiwanese pear cv. Hengshanli. The new races were designated as races 4 to 7. Progenies characteristic of race 3 isolates were produced in a cross between race 1 and race 2 isolates, suggesting the possible role of sexual recombination in the emergence of novel races. Japanese pear cv. Kinchaku and cv. Xiangli of P. sinkiangensis (Korla fragrant pear grown in China) didn't show visible symptoms after inoculation with any of the seven races. The broad scab resistance in Kinchaku and Xiangli makes them a promising genetic resource for resistance breeding programs.

Keywords: Host Parasite Interactions.