Abstract

DIAZ-FRANCO, Arturo  and  MONTES-GARCIA, Noé. Phytopathology in the semiarid region of Tamaulipas, Mexico: A historical review. Rev. mex. fitopatol [online]. 2008, vol.26, n.1, pp.62-70. ISSN 2007-8080.

Historically, diseases and their dynamics have been limiting factors for agriculture productivity in Tamaulipas. Since 44 years ago, the Rio Bravo Experimental Station (CERIB) has made outstanding contributions to plant pathology in the region, like contribution to the knowledge on management of charcoal rot (Macrophomina phaseolina) in sorghum, corn, and beans; and downy mildew (Peronosclerospora sorghi) of sorghum and corn. In sorghum, important contributions have been made on head smut (Sporisorium reilianum) and ergot (Claviceps africana); and aflatoxins control (Aspergillus flavus) in corn. Also on management of foliar diseases of wheat (Puccinia recondita f. sp. tritici, Helminthosporium sp., and Alternaria triticina), buffelgrass (Claviceps fusiformis, Cercospora sp. and Pyriculariagrisea), chickpea (Uromycesciceris-arietini) and sunflower (Erysiphe cichoracearum and Alternaria helianthi), among others. The phytopathological prospectives of CERIB include: a) to continue research on current and new threatening diseases; b) biocontrol of pathogens as an agronomic practice; c) the use of biotechnology techniques for pathogen identification; and d) phytopathological attention to new crops with potential for diversification of the regional agriculture. Disease management practices will need to consider the agroecological impact along with the criteria of sustainable agriculture production.

Keywords : Research on diseases; sorghum; corn; buffelgrass; wheat; beans; sunflower; chickpea; vegetables.