Screening of Chickpea Genotypes for Fusarium Wilt ( Fusarium oxysporum ) Resistance Under Field Condition in West Hararghe, Oromia

Abstract

Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris, is a major constraint to chickpea production worldwide, resulting in substantial yield reduction and deterioration of crop quality. The effectiveness of host resistance is often challenged by the emergence of new pathogen races, necessitating the continuous identification of resistant germplasm for breeding programs. This study was conducted to identify chickpea genotypes with resistance to Fusarium wilt and to select promising materials for further breeding. A total of 47 chickpea genotypes, along with two standard checks (Geletu and Dimtu), were evaluated under field conditions during the 2022 and 2023 main cropping seasons using an augmented experimental design. Disease incidence was recorded at both seedling and flowering stages, and genotypes were classified according to the ICRISAT disease rating scale. Considerable variation in disease response was observed among the tested genotypes. Two genotypes exhibited resistant reactions, while seventeen were categorized as moderately resistant. Overall, nineteen genotypes demonstrated desirable levels of resistance and were identified as valuable sources of resistance for future chickpea improvement programs. These genotypes can be advanced to subsequent breeding stages for the development of Fusarium wilt-resistant chickpea varieties.