The School of Environment and Natural Resources Speaker Series recently featured PhD candidate Chinmayee Priyadarshini, who delivered an inspiring presentation on her doctoral research. The event took place on March 10 at 4:00 p.m. in Kottman Hall, room 103, and offered attendees valuable insight into her innovative work. Below is her abstract:
Title: Soil Aggregation and Microbial Symbiosis in Mitigating Fusarium Wilt in Tomato
Abstract: Fusarium is a soil borne fungus that affects the nutrient uptake of a crop by blocking the xylem tissues. It significantly reduces the crop yields, sometimes leading to mycotoxin contamination of seeds and grains, heightening the issue of global food security. Fusarium species affect more than 150 crop species, including maize, barley, rice, legumes, cotton, and vegetables. Soil aggregation plays a crucial role in defining the microbial channels that influence plant systems and overall plant health. This study explores the relationship between stable soil aggregates and microbial interactions that offers resilience to the fusarium wilt in tomato. Understanding these interactions will provide us a foundation for sustainable management strategies that reduce the dependency on chemical controls.