Wheat rust is one of the oldest and most serious diseases affecting wheat plants worldwide, causing significant losses in global food production. The disease is caused by parasitic fungi that attack various parts of the plant, especially the leaves and stem, negatively impacting photosynthesis and grain production.
Methods of Infection: The disease is transmitted by the wind, carrying fungal spores from one plant to another. The risk of infection increases in humid and temperate environments. It spreads rapidly in unmonitored fields or fields planted with non-resistant varieties.
Symptoms of Infection:
Symptoms vary depending on the type of rust, but the most prominent are:
1. Leaf Rust:
Small, reddish-brown pustules appear on the upper surface of leaves.
This causes impaired photosynthesis.
2. Stem Rust:
Dark brown or black elongated pustules appear on stems and petioles.
This may lead to stem breakage and plant fall.
3. Stripe Rust (Orange):
Small yellow or orange pustules arranged in longitudinal lines on the leaf.
Often appears in cool, humid regions.
Impact of the disease on production:
A marked decrease in grain yield and quality.
In severe cases, it may result in a loss of more than 50% of the crop.
It affects the plant's ability to absorb nutrients and water.
Prevention and Control Methods:
1. Use of resistant varieties:
Plant rust-resistant wheat varieties developed by agricultural research centers.
2. Timely Planting:
Avoid early or late planting, which may coincide with periods of fungal activity.
3. Chemical Control:
Spray effective fungicides such as:
Propiconazole
Tebuconazole
Spraying is recommended at the onset of symptoms for maximum effectiveness.
4. Crop Rotation: Alternate planted crops to reduce the presence of fungal spores in the soil.
5. Dispose of infected crop residues: Burn or plow infected wheat residues after harvest.
Wheat rust disease is a persistent threat to food security, especially with climate change and the spread of new strains of fungi. However, by adhering to sound agricultural practices, using resistant varieties, and early control, the impact of this disease can be significantly reduced.


Al-Mustaqbal University is the first university in Iraq.


Goal 4 - Quality Education