This discovery opens creates new opportunities to develop disease-resistant groundnut varieties
In a groundbreaking study that could transformthe way farmers combat stem rot disease, scientists at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (Icrisat) and its partners have identified 13 genomic regions and 145 candidate genes linked to resistance.
Stem rot disease, caused by the soil-borne fungus Sclerotium rolfsii, is one of the biggest threats to groundnut farming.
Three key genes (AhSR001, AhSR002, AhSR003) were validated as markers, accounting for 60 per cent of resistance. The findings of the study were published in the Plant Genome journal. “With these markers, we can fast-track resistant groundnut varieties that save farmers money and build resilience against disease and climate shocks,” Manish Pandey, Principal Scientist at Icrisat, said.
“By reducing the need for costly fungicides and preventing catastrophic yield losses, resistant varieties could save farmers and economies millions of dollars each year. Fungicides provide only partial control and are environmentally unsustainable. Genomics-led breeding offers a durable, cost-effective solution,” an Icrisat official said.
This discovery opens new opportunities to develop disease-resistant groundnuts, significantly reducing risks for farmers and strengthening global food and nutrition security.
Groundnut is both an oilseed and a protein-rich legume, cultivated on more than 30 million hectares worldwide, with an annual global production of 50 million tonnes.
The crop is central to diets, incomes, and trade in Asia and Africa, particularly in countries such as India, Nigeria, and China, which collectively account for the majority of the global supply.
“This advance shows the high returns agricultural research delivers to economies, turning discovery into practical solutions,” Icrisat Director General Himanshu Pathak said.
Published on September 24, 2025