Plant Pathogen Detection and Diagnostic Laboratory Techniques in Digital Agriculture – A Review
Pranav Bhattarai
Abstract
As the global population approaches nine billion by 2050, there is a need for better and efficient food production systems to cater to the growing population. While improving crop production, there is an urgent need to develop a better understanding of the extent of global crop losses caused by plant-pathogen infestations. The diversity and acquired resistance of plant pathogens is on the rise as these pathogens have learnt to overcome the resistant genes in crops. Climate change has also led to a variety of plant diseases, compounded by both natural and human-induced alterations in climate conditions. This necessitates a better review of existing integrated disease management strategies for long-term agricultural sustainability. Sustainable disease management strategies could enhance agricultural productivity, food safety, food quality, and economic prosperity of farmers. In this regard, the on-farm detection, diagnosis, and treatment of plant pathogens are the crucial steps in combating plant disease, which is the focus of this review article. Several laboratory methods offer portable, cost-effective, and rapid detection of pathogens. As new and traditional methods become standardized, the low cost and ease-of-use of these methods and tools for smooth adoption in fields is the next challenge for the agricultural industry. Here we discuss the molecular biology diagnostic approaches and nucleic acid amplification methods as applied to plant and soil samples. These laboratory detection and diagnostic tools and methods for plant pathogens are discussed in the context of on-farm technology use and agricultural sustainability.
Author Biography
Pranav Bhattarai
Pranav Bhattarai, Department of Agriculture, Prithvi Narayan Campus, Tribhuvan University, Pokhara, Nepal
