Use of SCAR-PCR in diagnostics of stem base pathogens of the Rhizoctonia and Oculimacula genus

The aim of the paper is to compare the efficacy of SCAR-PCR assay and conventional diagnostic technique (visual assessment, isolation on PDA medium) in the identification of fungi from the genera Rhizoctonia and Oculimacula from winter triticale, rye, and barley during the shooting stage. The usefulness of molecular diagnosis of fungal pathogens in crop plants has been demonstrated. The application of SCAR- -PCR assay allowed early detection of the following pathogens: O. yallundae, O. acuformis, R. cerealis and R. solani, in plant tissues. This method was particularly effective in detection of R. solani. The research showed the usefulness of PCR markers for early detection of fungal pathogens, even if symptoms were not visible. Using the PCR technique, especially in combination with conventional methods, substantially increases the precision and effectiveness of disease diagnostics