Diversity and virulence of leaf and stem rust pathogens of wheat in Kazakhstan

Phytosanitary security is crucial for ensuring the food and national security of Kazakhstan, especially in combating high-risk cereal diseases like leaf rust and stem rust. This study assessed the virulence and race composition of Puccinia triticina and Puccinia graminis populations collected from different regions of Kazakhstan. A total of 30 isolates of leaf and 31 isolates of stem rust were analyzed against Lr- and Sr- near-isogenic lines to determine the effectiveness of resistance genes. Results revealed significant variability in race composition and virulence between northern and southern populations, with some races identified as common to both regions.