Fungal Pathogen Has Developed Fungicide Resistance
Researchers have identified widespread resistance to a key class of fungicides in the crop pathogen Plenodomus biglobosus.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Diseases — General
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Scientists have confirmed the first global cases of resistance to succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor (SDHI) fungicides in the plant pathogen Plenodomus biglobosus. This development, identified in samples from the United Kingdom and Poland, marks a significant shift in how this agricultural disease may behave in future seasons.
Why it matters
The emergence of these resistant strains could complicate disease management strategies, as SDHI fungicides have been a critical tool for control. Understanding the spread and fitness of these strains is essential for developing updated approaches to crop protection and pathogen suppression.
A laboratory analysis of Plenodomus biglobosus samples from the UK and Poland revealed widespread SDHI fungicide resistance. Researchers identified that the resistance is linked to specific genetic mutations, with some UK isolates demonstrating a 500-fold reduction in fungicide efficacy.
The players
Plenodomus biglobosus
A plant pathogen responsible for causing phoma disease in various agricultural crops.
The details
The resistance occurs through mutations in the genes that encode the fungal succinate dehydrogenase enzyme, which is the specific target of SDHI fungicides. By altering this enzyme, the fungus prevents the fungicide from effectively disrupting its energy production. Importantly, the research indicates that these mutations do not significantly decrease the fitness of the resistant strains, allowing them to thrive even without fungicide exposure.
Timeline
2024: Phoma resistance to azole fungicides was identified.
September 2026: Research findings on SDHI resistance were published.
Health Landscape
This development marks a significant update to the global challenge of chemical resistance in plant pathology. It builds upon previous discoveries of resistance to other agents, such as azoles, and illustrates the persistent trend of pathogens adapting to common antifungal chemistries.
While this news pertains to agricultural pathogens, it highlights the importance of monitoring how resistance develops in organisms exposed to chemical treatments. If you are concerned about how these agricultural changes might impact local food systems or safety, that is a topic worth discussing with your doctor.
The takeaway
The discovery of resistant P. biglobosus strains underscores the evolutionary capacity of pathogens to bypass widely used chemical inhibitors. Monitoring regional disease trends and staying informed on integrated pest management practices are essential strategies for those navigating the impacts of agricultural changes.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest research on evolving pathogen threats in our Diseases — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Farmers Weekly.
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Is the long-term effectiveness of current agricultural fungicide strategies becoming unreliable?
