Identification, biological characteristics and synergistic fungicide screening against Alternaria burnsii causing sorghum leaf spot
摘要
The leaf spot poses a growing threat to sorghum health. The screening isolate GL-2 was identified as Alternaria burnsii. Among the tested fungicides, fludioxonil exhibited the highest potency, with a median effective concentration (EC50) of 0.16 mg L− 1. Two combinations showed synergistic effects: pyraclostrobin: flusilazole at a ratio of 0.60:1 (synergy ratio, SR = 1.75) and fludioxonil: procymidone at 0.28:1 (SR = 1.58). The latter combination demonstrated the most effective disease suppression, achieving 83.61% inhibition on detached leaves and 89.87% control efficacy in vivo. Mechanistic analysis revealed that the fludioxonil: procymidone blend primarily disrupts pathogen cell membrane integrity, leading to increased electrical conductivity. Furthermore, this treatment interfered with stress-related metabolic pathways in the pathogen, resulting in notable alterations in antioxidant enzyme activities, soluble protein content, and reducing sugar levels. These findings elucidate the practical effectiveness and physiological impacts of fungicidal combinations, offering valuable insights for enhancing sorghum leaf spot management strategies.