Darling Downs barley research uncovers hidden disease risk

Key points

• Barley seed could carry fungicide-resistant net blotch into future crops, according to University of Southern Queensland research. Researchers found the disease can move from infected seed into developing seedlings.
• Samples were collected from grower fields across the Darling Downs. Lead researcher Dr Noel Knight said seed source should be considered as part of disease management.
• Further research is needed to establish how widespread the problem is.