Cotton Innovations Vol 2 Issue 8 - 221024 - 100416

News: Uzbekistan Host the 8th Version of WCRC 2
PROCEEDINGS OF THE GENERAL BODY MEETING, INTERNATIONAL COTTON

RESEARCHERS’ ASSOCIATION (ICRA) 6 October 2022, Cairo, Egypt
3
Phosphorus stratification in Australian Cotton farming systems 5
A Brief Summary of the Effect of Nitrogen Application Rates on Cotton Fibre Quality 9
New Insights on Why There are Differences in Micronaire in Cotton Crops 11

Disease in Australian Cotton Systems 16
The Challenges of Breeding for Verticillium Wilt Resistance in the Australian Cotton
Breeding Program
21
Are arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi an exciting new player or misunderstood hero in

cotton?
23
Synthetic Biology: The Key to a New Era of Elite Cultivar Development? 26

Glimpses of World Cotton Research Conference -7, 3rd to 7th Oct. 2022, Cairo-Egypt 29
The Cotton Innovations Newsletter is published twelve times annually. Contributed articles, pictures,
cartoons, and feedback are welcome at any time. Please send contributions to the General Editors (see
below). The editors reserve the right to edit. The deadline for contributions is one month before the
publication date.
Editorial Board
Dr. Mohamed Negm, Chairman of ICRA
(mohamed.negm@arc.sci.eg)
Chief Editor, Professor of Cotton fiber and yarn spinning technology,
Cotton Research Institute, Giza-Egypt.
Dr. Keshav Kranthi Executive Director-ICRA
(keshav@icac.org).
Chief Scientist, International Cotton Advisory Committee, ICAC.
Dr. Eric Hequet, Vice-Chairman and treasurer-ICRA
(Eric.Hequet@ttu.edu)
Horn Distinguished Professor, Fiber and Biopolymer Research Institute, Texas Tech
University.
Dr. Fiaz Ahmad, ICRA Secretariat,
fiazdrccri@gmail.com
Senior Scientific Officer/Head Physiology/Chemistry Section, Central Cotton Research
Institute, Multan, Pakistan
Dr. Michael Bange,
michael.bange@grdc.com.au,
Senior Manager, Agronomy, Soils, Nutrition and Farming Systems, Grains Research
and Development Corporation, Editor of October-2022 Issue
Published by ICRA Secretariat, Pakistan Central Cotton Committee, Multan-Pakistan

http://icracotton.org
The newsletter is also available at URL: http://www.icracotton.org/page/cotton-innovations
ISSN 27886611-
Volume 2 Issue 8 October 2022 www.icracotton.org

Uzbekistan Host the 8th vver
ersion
sion of
Wor
orld
ld Cotton R
Resear
esearc
ch Conf
Confer
erence
ence
The International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) has announced
that the World Cotton Research Conference (WCRC-8) will be held in
Samarqand, Uzbekistan. The WCRC is organised by the ICAC under
the auspices of the International Cotton Researchers Association
(ICRA). It brings together the top researchers and cotton specialists
from across the globe.
The WCRC will serve as a global platform for scientists and experts
to share the latest updates in cotton research and development.
Internationally recognised experts will be invited to deliver plenary
and keynote presentations.
“Given the many challenges that cotton is facing around the world
— including soil degradation, inefficient knowledge transfer and lack
of access to modern technologies — it is the perfect time to convene
many of the world’s top cotton scientists to find the path forward,”
said ICAC Chief Scientist, Dr Keshav Kranthi. “The ability to meet
face-to-face with colleagues from all over the world and learn from
each other is an opportunity not to be missed.” The WCRC is held
once every four years in different cotton-growing countries. Previous
conferences were held in Australia (1994), Greece (1998), South Africa
(2003), USA (2007), India (2011), Brazil (2016) and Egypt (2022).
INTERNATIONAL COTTON RESEARCHERS ASSOCIATION
1629 K Street NW, Suite 702, Washington DC 20006 USA
PROCEEDINGS OF THE GENERAL BODY MEETING

INTERNATIONAL COTTON RESEARCHERS’ ASSOCIATION (ICRA)
6 October 2022, Cairo, Egypt
INTRODUCTION
The General Body Assembly meeting of The International Cotton Researchers Association
(ICRA) was held on 6 October in the Diamond ballroom of Steigenberger Hotel, Cairo Egypt. A
total number of 220 ICRA members participated in the meeting.
The meeting was chaired by Dr Negm, Chairman ICRA; Dr Eric Hequet, Vice-Chair ICRA; Dr
Khalid Abdullah, President ICRA Secretariat and Dr Keshav Kranthi, Executive Director ICRA.
AMENDMENTS TO BYELAWS:
The following proposals for amendments to byelaws were discussed and approved unanimously
by the General Body Assembly.
1. ASSOCIATE MEMBERS: The ICRA Executive Committee is permitted to solicit corporate
bodies and private sector organizations to be admitted as Associate members of ICRA. The
membership fee would be decided by the ICRA-EC.
2. TREASURER: The Vice-Chair or any member of Executive Committees is permitted to
officiate as Treasurer until the appointment of a new Treasurer.
3. NUMBER OF ICRA-EC MEMBERS: The number of ICRA Executive members (ICRA-
EC) will be increased to twenty-five (25) to accommodate adequate geographical
representation and to cover majority of the subject-matter disciplines on cotton research. The
President of the ICRA-Secretariat and the Chief Scientist of the ICAC will by default be
permanent members of the ICRA Executive Committee. The General Body Assembly will
elect 15 ICRA-EC members to not exceed a maximum number of two members from any
country. The General Body Assembly and/or ICRA-EC will co-opt 3-8 members to facilitate
geographical representation and subject-matter disciplines that are not represented by the
elected EC members.
4. ICRA-ADVISORS: The ICRA-EC will nominate/invite up to three Eminent Scientists to act
as Advisors to the ICRA. The ICRA-Advisors will be invited to attend the ICRA-EC meetings
to provide guidance on matters of importance as and when they arise.
ELECTION OF ICRA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS

The Nominating Committee Received 35 applications for election as Executive Committee
Members of the ICRA. Seventeen of the 35 candidates attended the WCRC-7 and participated in
the elections. Dr Mohamed Negm and Dr Eric Hequet were elected by the ICRA-EC as the
Chairman and Vice-Chairman respectively in 2021 and were therefore considered as EC
members-designate until the next World Cotton Research Conference.
Voting was held by the General Body Assembly to elect 15 Executive Committee Members of the
ICRA. The candidates presented their vision for ICRA before the General Body Assembly. Voting
was by show of hands and assessment of majority votes for election.
International Cotton Researchers Association www.icracotton.org

icracotton.org@gmail.com
1629 K Street NW, Suite 702, Washington DC 20006 USA
The following candidates were elected by the General Body Assembly

1 Dr. Akhteruzzaman Bangladesh Agronomy & Crop Physiology
2 Dr. Alex Mungai Kenya Value Addition & Social Sciences
3 Dr. Bruno Bachelier France Plant Breeding and Molecular Genetics
4 Dr. Felix Sawadogo Burkina Faso Pest Management
5 Dr. Ghorban Roshani Iran Crop Physiology and Soil Science
6 Dr. Ghulam Sarwar Pakistan Plant Breeding and Genetics
7 Dr. Jodi Scheffler USA Plant Breeding and Molecular Genetics
8 Dr. Marcelo Paytas Argentina Agronomy and Crop Physiology
9 Dr. Martin Simasiku Zambia Plant Breeding and Genetics
10 Dr. Nazife Ozkan Turkiye Plant Breeding and Genetics
11 Dr. Sandhya Kranthi India Entomology and Crop Protection
12 Dr. Souzan Sanad Egypt Spinning & Fibre Technologies
13 Dr. Tahani Yousif Elagib Sudan Agricultural Biotechnology
14 Dr. Venugopalan MV India Agronomy & Soil Science
Prof. Ibrokhim Abdurakhmonov, Hon’ble Minister of Innovation, Uzbekistan, was nominated and
unanimously approved by the General Body Assembly as the ICRA Advisor.
TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR EC MEMBERS

• ICRA will convene a meeting of the newly elected ICRA-EC at the earliest possible
convenience to discuss the future plans for ICRA.
• The newly elected Executive Committee shall co-opt new EC members for Geographical
and subject matter representation in the next immediate ICRA-EC meeting.
• Each subject group will develop communication channels and social media networks to
connect researchers of their subject area and to explore research collaborations.
• Each of the ICRA-EC subject-groups team will coordinate all activities related to
research collaboration, conducting training programmes, certificate programmes,
conferences, meetings, seminars, workshops, institution visits, review papers, reports
and technical publications in their subject area.
• The EC members and ICRA experts will receive a certificate signed by the ICAC as and
when required for their CV.
Mohamed Negm
Chairman, ICRA
Keshav Kranthi
Executive Director, ICRA
6 October 2022
Cairo, Egypt
International Cotton Researchers Association www.icracotton.org
icracotton.org@gmail.com
Phosphorus stratification
Phosphorus stratificationininAustralian
AustralianCotton
Cottonfarming
systems farming systems
Authors:
Authors: Guna
Guna Nachimuthu1,
Nachimuthu 1 Graeme
, Graeme Schwenke2,
Schwenke 2
, Clarence Clarence
Mercer2, Nilantha Hulugalle3 and Mike Bell4
1
1NSW
NSW Department
Department ofIndustries,
of Primary PrimaryAustralian
Industries, Australian
Cotton Research Cotton
Institute, Narrabri,
Research NSW 2390
2
NSW Department of Primary Industries, Tamworth Agricultural
Institute,
Institute Narrabri,
Tamworth, NSW 2390
NSW 2340
3 2NSW Department
Fenner School of Environmentof Primary Industries,
& Society, Tamworth
Australian National
Agricultural
University,
4
Acton, Institute
ACT Tamworth, NSW 2340
The School ofSchool
3Fenner Agriculture and Food sciences,
of Environment The University
& Society, of
Australian
Queensland, Gatton, QLD
National University, Acton, ACT
guna.nachimuthu@dpi.nsw.gov.au
4The School of Agriculture and Food sciences, The
University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD
Phosphorus (P) is an essential nutrient for tests that differ in the type of extraction
cotton plant growth. Most
Phosphorus (P) is an essential nutrient for cot- Australian solutionsP can
Soil inorganic andbeextraction
assessed usingduration
severalused.
cur-
cotton-growing soils typically have high These include solution P (readily available
ton plant growth. Most Australian cotton-grow- rently available commercial soil tests that differ
clay contents, cation exchange capacities for immediate plant uptake), plant
ing soilsand
typically
total Phave high clay
contents, but contents,
many also cat-have in the available
type of extraction solutions
soil P (Colwell P: and extraction
an extraction
ion exchange
alkalinecapacities
pH’s (>7.5) and total
that Pcan contents,
reduce P duration thatused. These P
simulates include
releasesolution
over aPgrowing (readily
availability. Phosphorus
but many also have alkaline pH’s (>7.5) that deficiency can season and includes solution
available for immediate plant uptake), plant avail- P), and
lead toP poor
can reduce seedling Phosphorus
availability. vigour, stunted defi-plant able soil
slowly available
P (Colwell P: soil P or reserve
an extraction thatPsimu-that
growth, delayed flowering, poor boll may become plant available over years. In
ciency can lead toand
retention poorconsequently
seedling vigour, stunt- lint lates P most
reduced releasesoils
over a ingrowing
the season
Australianand includes
cotton
ed plantyield.
growth,Most delayed flowering,
Australian cotton poor boll are solution
farms P), and reserve
industry, slowly Pavailable soil P or reserve
can be approximated by
designed as irrigated row cropping
retention and consequently reduced lint yield. systems P that may become plant available over years. M
the difference between BSES P (0.005 In
with the capacity to saturate
Most Australian cotton farms are designed as down to 1 m sulphuric acid extract for 16
most soils in the Australian cotton industry, re- hours) and
of the soil profile. Traditionally, this Colwell P (0.5 M sodium bicarbonate
irrigateddesign
row cropping systems with the capac-
assists the cotton crop to access soil serve P can be
extract for approximated by thethedifference
16 hours), although fraction
ity to saturate
moisture downandto 1nutrients
m of the deeper
soil profile.
in the between of BSES P (0.005 M
this P available sulphuric
in any one year acid canextract
vary
profile,thisalthough
Traditionally, otherthesoil
design assists constraints
cotton crop for 16 with
hours)theandsoilColwell
mineralogy
P (0.5and fertiliserbicar-
M sodium use.
such as compaction and sodicity
to access soil moisture and nutrients deeper in can limit Quantifying the BSES P and Colwell
bonate extract for 16 hours), although the fraction P at
the root growth into deeper layers. different depths using archived samples
the profile, although other soil constraints such of this P available in any one year can vary with
Previous research in the Australian grains from five long-term cropping system
as compaction and sodicity can
industry has highlighted subsoil P limit the root the soil mineralogy (located
experiments and fertiliser
in Newuse.South
Quantifying
Wales)
growth depletion
into deeperand layers. Previous research
P stratification in
in topsoil the BSES
shouldP andimprove
Colwell Ptheat different depths us-
understanding of
over the long term. Irrigated
the Australian grains industry has highlighted Vertisols current soil P status and its
ing archived samples from five long-term croppingstratification
undergo a more intensive crop
subsoil P depletion and P stratification in top- production systemand potential(located
experiments implications
in New South for Wales)
future
cycle than dryland systems and have the nutrient management strategies in
soil over the long term. Irrigated Vertisols
potential to deplete soil nutrient reserves at un- should improve the understanding
Australian cotton-growing soils. of current soil P
dergo aamore intensive
faster rate.cropHowever,
production scientific
cycle status and its stratification and potential implica-
The long-term trends and comparison with
information
than dryland systemsonand thehave
long-term changes
the potential to in tions for future nutrient management
native sites showed a decline strategies
in all three in
soil P in Australian irrigated
deplete soil nutrient reserves at a faster rate. cotton .Australian cotton-growing soils
measurements of P (Solution P, Colwell P
growing soils is limited.
However, scientific information on the long- and BSES P) in most of the locations
Soil inorganic The long-term trends and comparison with native
term changes in soil P Pin can be assessed
Australian irrigated using (average for BSES P presented in Table 1).
several currently available commercial soil sites showed a declinea innegative
This suggested all threeP measurements
balance in all
.cotton growing soils is limited
- 5 - 1
of P (Solution P, Colwell P and BSES P) in most (maximum tillage ~ cotton monoculture, mini-
of the locations (average for BSES P presented mum tillage ~ cotton monoculture and minimum
in Table 1). This suggested a negative P balance tillage ~ cotton-wheat rotation) (Table 2). This
in all but one site located in the Macquarie val- suggests an interaction between soil manage-
ley (Warren). Phosphorus export in cotton seed ment and the dynamics of P entering or being
(8–34 kg P/ha) over the years is likely to be the released from the reserve pool (BSES) to the
main cause of the negative trend at the other four Colwell P. While the ACRI long-term experi-
sites. A cotton crop yielding 15 bales/ha would ments that were running longer than 13 and 22
accumulate 58 kg P/ha in crop biomass, with ca. years were sufficient to develop clear treatment
2/3 of that leaving the field in the seed cotton. differences in P decline, the duration of the on-
Therefore, P fertiliser inputs for each cotton sea- farm experiments was less than 7 years and crop
son need to match the P in cotton (and grain) rotation treatments had no measurable effect on
.seed exported since the previous P application soil P levels (0-60 cm average). The ACRI re-
The depth increment BSES P results reveal two sults imply sustainable soil management benefits
key facts. In the experiment in the Namoi valley can be realised after the implementation of best
(Australian Cotton Research Institute (ACRI), .management practices over many years
Wee Waa and Merah North) (Figure 1A), with While P application to the topsoil will restore the
high background P fertility throughout the pro- overall P balance in the cotton field, the stratifi-
file, there has been significant P extraction in cation of available P in this layer will lead to a
each soil layer down to at least 50cm, indicat- mismatch over time between remaining available
ing the depths from which roots will extract P. In P and where the plant roots access most of their
the Macquarie valley study (Figure 1B), where water and nutrients in the soil profile. To achieve
background soil P was much lower and there a theoretical maximum yield of 22 bales/ha, it
has been a history of fertiliser P application into was estimated that 83 kg P/ha would need to be
the surface soil, P stratification can be seen to be available for plant uptake (Constable and Bange
occurring. The prolonged addition of fertiliser P 2015). This will be a challenge with the ob-
into the cultivated layer has led to the gradual served trend of the long-term decline in soil P at
buildup of P in the surface soil—P stratifica- different depths. While the topsoil P can be sup-
tion—over the years (Figure 1B), although there plemented with fertilisers, the decline in subsoil
has been no change to P status in deeper layers P will further restrict the soil volume available
(>30 cm) due to the lack of P leaching in these for cotton plant roots to explore for P to achieve
soils. After harvest, the cotton crop is mulched maximum yield potential. The self-mulching ac-
back onto topsoil each season. This practice is tion of Vertisols may help to transfer some of the
an additional factor contributing toward P strati- topsoil P to the subsoil, although there will be
.fication in the topsoil high variability in crack depth and volume, and
the quantities involved are dwarfed by annual
Colwell P levels were higher under minimum
crop uptake. All options including crop rotation,
tillage (soil tilled 10 cm) compared to maximum
soil and irrigation management and their interac-
tillage (soil tilled 30 cm) cotton monoculture. In
tion with nutrients such as P need to be explored
contrast, there was no difference in BSES P con-
to realise the maximum yield potential of mod-
centrations among the three cropping systems
ern cotton cultivars. Short-term changes in soil
-6-
P during and between cropping seasons require the access of available P by plant roots in irrigated
a more detailed mechanistic understanding un- .cotton fields
der field conditions, particularly with regard to
Table 1. Soil BSES P (reserve P status) in long-term cotton systems experiments and adjacent native
sites. ACRI is the Australian Cotton Research Institute. All sites except for Warren are located in the
Namoi Valley New South Wales (NSW). Warren is located in the Macquarie Valley in NSW
Locations Depth Cotton field Native site % of Native site

ACRI 1 0–15 cm 259 299 87
15–30 cm 239 219 109
30–45 cm 227 239 95
45–60 cm 238 235 101
ACRI 2 0–10 cm 191 281* 68

10–30 cm 170 244* 70
30–60 cm 180 226* 80
Wee Waa 0–15 cm 191 244 78

15–30 cm 174 143 121
30–45 cm 185 254 73
45–60 cm 204 422 48
Merah North 0–15 cm 83 185 45

15–30 cm 62 220 28
30–45 cm 75 237 32
45–60 cm 112 307 36
Warren 0–15 cm 106 15 711

15–30 cm 39 8 501
30–45 cm 15 8 177
45–60 cm 11 10 106
*The values were estimated using the logarithmic relationship as the native paired site for ACRI 1
used a different depth increment.
Table 2. Effect of cropping systems on soil P levels (0–60 cm depth) at ACRI 1
-7-
Cropping systems Solution P (mg/kg) Colwell P (mg/kg) BSES P (mg/kg)
Maximum tillage
0.319a 46.5a 246a
cotton monoculture
Minimum tillage
0.457a 65.4b 234a
cotton monoculture
Minimum tillage
cotton-wheat 0.434a 57.8ab 242a
rotation INTERNATIONAL COTTON RESEARCHERS ASSOCIATION
A) B)
Figure 1. Long-term changes in soil Colwell P in long-term cotton systems experiments at

Figure 1. Long-term
(A) ACRI, Namoi Valley changes in Macquarie
and (B) soil Colwell P in long-term cotton systems experiments at (A)
Valley.
.ACRI, Namoi Valley and (B) Macquarie Valley
Acknowledgement part of its Rural R&D for Profit program,
This research was undertaken as a sub- Cotton Research and Development
Acknowledgement Corporation and NSW Department of
project of the More Profit from Nitrogen
This research was undertaken as a sub-project of thePrimary
More Profit Industries
from NitrogenisProgram, supported
gratefully
Program, supported by funding from the
by funding from the Australian Government Department of Agriculture,
acknowledged. Waterfrom
Assistance and Environment
various
Australian Government Department of
as a part of its Rural R&D for Profit program, Cotton
technical and ACRI farm staff are and
Research and Development Corporation
Agriculture, Water and Environment as a
NSW Department of Primary Industries is gratefullygratefully
acknowledged. Assistance from various tech-
acknowledged.
.nical and ACRI farm staff are gratefully acknowledged
-8-
Phosphorus stratification in Australian Cotton

A Brief Summary of the Effect of Nitrogen Application Rates
farming systems
on Cotton Fibre Quality
Authors: Guna Nachimuthu1, Graeme Schwenke2, Clarence
Authors: Marinus (René) van der Sluijs
1
NSW Department of Primary Industries, Australian Cotton Research
Principal
Institute, Consultant
Narrabri, NSW 2390 Textile Technical Services, 35 Helena
2
NSW Department
Street, of Primary
Belmont, Industries,
Victoria, 3216, Tamworth
AustraliaAgricultural
Institute Tamworth, NSW 2340
3 sluijs@optusnet.com.au
Fenner School of Environment & Society, Australian National
University, Acton, ACT
4
The School of Agriculture and Food sciences, The University of
Introduction
cotton plant growth. Most Australian have been identified
solutions by the cotton
and extraction trade and
duration spin-
used.
cotton-growing soils typically have high These include solution P (readily
ning industry as the most important which in- available
Theclay
importance
contents,of cation
the application
exchangeof capacities
nitrogen in for fibre
immediate plant uniformity,
uptake), strength,
plant
the and
cotton production system in terms cludes length, length
total P contents, but many alsoofhave
plant available soil P (Colwell P: an extraction
alkaline
growth, pH’s
health, yield(>7.5)
etc. arethat
wellcan reduce and
understood P micronaire
that simulates(a combination
P releaseofover maturity and fine-
a growing
availability. Phosphorus deficiency
has been studied for over a century, with practi- can ness),
seasoncolour andandincludes
trash. As asolution
consequence, cotton
P), and
lead to poor seedling vigour, stunted plant slowly and
is bought available
sold onsoil P or
these fibrereserve P that
properties, with
cal guidelines, decision support systems, models
growth, delayed flowering, poor boll may become plant available
colour having the highest contribution to theover years. In
and retention
reviews providing informationreduced
and consequently on the impor-
lint most soils in the Australian cotton
tance of providing crops with cotton
sufficient supply price of cotton, followed by cleanliness/trash,
yield. Most Australian farms areof industry, reserve P can be approximated by
designed as irrigated row cropping
nutrients and improving nitrogen use efficiency systems .micronaire,
the difference length and strength
between BSES P (0.005 M
withUnfortunately,
the capacity todespite
saturate
thedown to the
1 mfi-
(NUE). fact that In sulphuric
terms of fibreacid length,
extract thefor majority
16 hours) and
of studies
nancial return
design to the
assists thegrower
cottonin most
crop to crop
accessproduc-
soil concluded
extract for that16increased application
hours), although rates of N
the fraction
tionmoisture
systems depends on crop quantity
and nutrients deeper and in qual-
the hadof no
thissignificant
P availableeffect
in anyonone length, withvary
year can a few
profile,
ity only although
a limited numberother soil constraints
of studies have been with the
studies soil mineralogy
finding no clear trend. and There
fertiliser use.also
were
published on work and knowledge relatinglimit
such as compaction and sodicity can to the some studies that found that N application at
Quantifying the BSES P and Colwell P rates
effect of N application
Previous research in rates
theonAustralian
fibre quality. As a
grains either
fromhadfive a positive (i.e., increase)
long-term croppingor asystem
negative
consequence,
industry ithas was considered
highlightedimportant
subsoilto un- P .(decrease)
experiments effect on fibre
(located length
in New South Wales)
depletion
.dertake and Preview
a focussed stratification
of publishedin topsoil
on this should improve the understanding of
over the long term. Irrigated Vertisols current soil P status and its stratification
undergo a more intensive crop production and potential
Similarly, the majorityimplications for futurethat
of studies concluded
cycle
Fibre thanProperties
Quality dryland systems and have the nutrient management strategies
increased application rates of N had no signifi- in
potential to deplete soil nutrient reserves at Australian cotton-growing soils.
cant effect on strength, with a few studies find-
Dueato the
faster
greaterrate.
demands However,
of modernscientific
spinning,
information ingThe
no long-term
trend. There trends
wereand also comparison
some studies withthat
in terms of speedon andthe long-termthe
automation, changes in
cost of raw native sites showed a decline in all three
soil P in Australian irrigated cotton found that N application rates either had a posi-
material and the increasingly competitive global measurements of P (Solution P, Colwell P
growing soils is limited. tive (i.e., increase) or amost
negative (decrease) effect
textile market, cotton fibre quality is of utmost and BSES P) in of the locations
Soil inorganic P can be assessed using .on(average for BSES P presented in Table 1).
fibre strength
importance to the spinner. As a consequence,
several currently available commercial soil This suggested a negative P balance in all
there are a number of physical properties that For micronaire the majority of studies concluded
1
-9-
that increased application rates of N had either no sistance to standard insecticides, resulting in in-
significant effect, or no clear trend. There were creased applications and the use of more harmful
also some studies that found that N application .products to beneficials
rates either had a positive (i.e., increase) or a neg-
.ative (decrease) effect on micronaire
Conclusion
On the other hand, there is general agreement that
colour in terms of reflectance and yellowness was The observed effects of N application rates on
negatively affected by increased N application fibre quality are rather varied and often inconsis-
rates resulting in the fibre becoming less bright tent. This was specifically the case for fibre length
and duller and possibly resulting in a reduction and length uniformity, strength and micronaire.
in the colour grade. In terms of lint turn out the This was unsurprising as length and strength are
majority of studies concluded that N application primarily genetic traits with micronaire primar-
rate did result in either a significant reduction in ily attributed to weather and management. Of
lint turn out, no significant effect or with no clear course, the range of different test methods and
trend. There were however a small number of instruments and at times no indication of the test
studies that showed that N application rates did method and instrument could have contributed to
.increase lint turn out these differences. On the other hand, colour, lint
turn out and sticky cotton were very much influ-
Cotton stickiness, when it occurs, can present a
enced by the application rate of N. The colour of
major problem, in terms of textile processing per-
the fibre becoming less bright and duller, with a
formance and cost and product quality. The main
reduction in lint turn out and increased suscepti-
problem related to cotton stickiness is that of the
bility and insect attractiveness with increased N
sticky deposit, or residue. The most common and
.application rates
problematic causes of stickiness are those due to
excess sugars related to insect secretions, notably There is no doubt that nitrogen plays a significant
aphids and whitefly, referred to as honeydew. This role in the production of cotton however, the ex-
deposit adheres to any machine part or surface cess application above NUE has no economical
encountered by the cotton along the processing .benefit and could impact on fibre quality
pipeline, causing an accumulation of fibres (and Further assessment to further clarify the effect of
even dust or grit), during the ginning and spin- N on fibre quality are currently being conducted
ning processes but can also cause issues during .in Australia
cotton classification, with deposits on the combs,
This summary is an extract from a very compre-
used in HVI instruments, resulting in incorrect
hensive review published in The Journal of Cot-
and inaccurate fibre measurements. In addition,
:ton Research. Details are as follows
a black sooty mould can also grow on honeydew,
darkening the lint and adversely affecting grade. van der Sluijs MHJ. Effect of Nitrogen Appli-
Studies have shown that increased N application cation Level on Cotton Fibre Quality. Journal
rates result in increased populations of aphids and of Cotton Research. 2022; 5(9): 35 https://doi.
whitefly. N also increased their and other pests re- org/10.1186/s42397-022-00116-9
- 10 -

New Insights on Why There
farming are Differences in Micronaire in
systems
Cotton Crops
Authors: Michael Bange, Robert Long, Sarah J. Caton, and
1
NSWNicolas Finger
Department of Primary Industries, Australian Cotton Research
Cotton
Institute, SeedNSW
Narrabri, Distributors
2390 and CSIRO Agriculture and Food
2
NSW Department
Mbange@csd.net.auof Primary Industries, Tamworth Agricultural
3
4
Phosphorus (P) is an essential nutrient for

Summary teststhat
mean thatfibres
differareinimmature,
the type of extraction
leading to break-
cotton plant growth. Most Australian solutions and extraction duration used.
Experiments were conducted over have
eight high
cotton ages in fibres within the yarn and poor dye uptake
cotton-growing soils typically These include solution P (readily available
clay contents, cation exchange capacities
seasons and varied planting time, fruit load, cano- during
for textile
immediateprocessing.
plant Too high Micronaire
uptake), plant
andand
py size total
wereP contents,
exposed tobut many
water also have
stress. may indicatesoil
available thatPfibre is coarse
(Colwell P: and is undesirable
an extraction
alkaline pH’s (>7.5) that can reduce P that simulates P release over a
for spinners as it results in too few fibres growingin yarn
Finalavailability.
Micronaire was Phosphorus deficiency bycan
primarily influenced tem- season and includes solution P), and
cross section, reducing its strength. Consequently,
lead to poor seedling vigour,
perature during the boll filling period. stunted plant slowly available soil P or reserve P that
growth, delayed flowering, poor boll growers may incur
may become plantprice discounts
available over ifyears.
Micronaire
In
Average boll size
retention andatconsequently
harvest and leaf area index
reduced lint at of most
their cotton
soils falls
in outside the optimal cotton
the Australian range (3.5
yield. moderated
flowering Most Australian cotton farms are
crop Micronaire. to industry,
4.9). reserve P can be approximated by
designed as irrigated row cropping systems the difference between BSES P (0.005 M
Thiswith
new theunderstanding
capacity tohas been used
saturate downtotosuccess-
1m sulphuric acid extract for 16 hours) and
fullyofdeveloped
the soila profile. Traditionally,
mathematical function tothis pre- Colwell P (0.5 M sodium bicarbonate
design assists the cotton crop to access
dict Micronaire at crop maturity (including crops soil extract for 16 hours), although the fraction
moisture and nutrients deeper in the of this P available in any one year can vary
which have been stressed) which may be used to
profile, although other soil constraints with the soil mineralogy and fertiliser use.
inform
such cropas management.
compaction and sodicity can limit Quantifying the BSES P and Colwell P at
Introduction
industry and
Environment hascrophighlighted
management subsoil
can both playP experiments (located in New South Wales)
depletion
important rolesand P stratification
in determining fibre in topsoil
quality. Mi- should improve the understanding of
cronaire
undergois anaindirect measure of
more intensive fibre
crop linear den-
production and potential implications for future
sity cycle
(fineness)
than and maturity,
dryland and and
systems it is have
affected
theby nutrient management strategies in
croppotential
growth and to deplete soil nutrient
partitioning reserves
of available at
assim- Australian cotton-growing soils.
ilatesa (from
faster rate. However,
photosynthesis) to cotton scientific
fruit. High The long-term trendsofand comparison withyarn
information on the long-term changes in Picture: The maturity fibres in the cotton
Micronaire occurs when there is an excess of as- native sites showed a decline in all three
soil P in Australian irrigated cotton affects its strengthofand it ability to
similates duesoils
to good growing conditions and/or measurements P (Solution P,take up dye.
Colwell P
growing is limited.
and growth
Fibre BSES P) andindevelopment
most of thearelocations
affected by
fruit number is low. Conversely low Micronaire
Soil inorganic P can be assessed using (average for BSES P presented in Table 1).
occurs whencurrently
growingavailable
conditions are poor and/or most variables which influence plant growth.
several commercial soil This suggested a negative P balance in all
fruit number is high. Too low Micronaire may Since fibre is primarily cellulose, any influence on
1
- 11 -
crop photosynthesis will have a similar influence single irrigation during boll filling).
on fibre growth. Much research has been conduct-
Leaf area was measured at the start of the estimat-
ed that has shown that Micronaire responds inde-
ed fibre thickening period which was the same day
pendently to variables like temperature and radi-
of fruit removal in those experiments. At harvest
ation levels during boll filling; leaf defoliation;
yield, yield components (boll number (per m2),
water stress; and internal competition from bolls
boll size (g seed cotton per boll), and fibre Mi-
for assimilate carbohydrate within the plant. Little
cronaire (with HVI) was measured. Average tem-
research, however, has been conducted attempting
peratures for each treatment in each experiment
to develop an integrated understanding at a crop
for the fibre thickening phase was calculated.
level of combinations of some of these impacts
on Micronaire. This research involved a range of Development of functions to predict Micronaire
field experiments that generated variability in Mi- used leaf area at the start of the fibre thickening
cronaire by changing growing temperature con- period, the calculated mean temperature during
ditions at boll filling through changes in planting the fibre thickening period, the boll size at matu-
time; manipulated crop canopy size through use rity (g seed cotton per boll), and boll number at
of plant growth regulators and plant tip removal; maturity (boll per m2). Stepwise linear multiple
and changes in the crop demand by the fruit by regression analysis was used to see how all vari-
manually removing a proportion of fruit from the ables together impacted Micronaire. Once the re-
plant at flowering. lationship was developed it was validated against
independent datasets.
To capture our understanding of the response of
these variables to Micronaire, we developed a
mathematical function from some initial experi- Results
ments, and then tested it on later experiments to
Stepwise linear regression analysis applied to the
ensure that we had appropriately described the
first two experiments (data combined) to deter-
impact. This relationship can also be used to pre-
mine how all crop variables together could influ-
dict crop Micronaire which then can be used to
ence Micronaire. The process of stepwise regres-
refine management decisions to improve fibre
sion analysis is a process by which variables are
quality before, or at harvest time.
added to a regression (that predicts Micronaire)
Methods and determines if it is statistically significant
Experiments were conducted at the Australian (95% confidence) in affecting Micronaire along
Cotton Research Institute (ACRI) at Narrabri Aus- with estimating the degree of impact (the higher
tralia over eight seasons. Treatments were ap- the increase in r2 the bigger the impact). On the
plied to experiments with the intent to generate basis that temperature had previously been identi-
differences in Micronaire at final harvest. Experi- fied as a significant variable affecting Micronaire,
ments (Exps) had different planting times (to gen- it was the first variable added to the stepwise re-
erate effects of temperature on fibre thickening), gression analysis. The regression then was sig-
fruit removal (fruit removed at the start of boll nificantly improved by adding boll size followed
filling and all fruit retained to modify crop fruit by leaf area. The inclusion of the interaction term
demand), canopy modification treatments (tipped, in the function that accounted for the temperature
normal, and regulated to modify crop supply), and during fibre filling and leaf area together, also sig-
irrigation (normal and water deficits by missing a nificantly improved the regression (the stepwise
- 12 -
regression build of function is detailed in Table 1). Consequently, this suggests that when tempera-
After all variables were added the regression the tures are higher this may help to compensate for
r2 was 0.79 which represents excellent ability to lower resource capture from a lower leaf area. The
explain Micronaire. Boll number was also tested sensitivity analysis also emphasized that tempera-
as part of the assessment but did not significantly ture and boll size were the two dominate factors
help understanding of the impacts on Micronaire. affecting Micronaire, and that reasonable predic-
Following on, the understanding generated from tions of impacts could be made with these factors
these initial experiments the function was then alone.
tested on independent data generated from the re- Conclusions
maining experiments and the predicion ability was
Considering that there was reasonable ability to
reasonable across the spread of data from these
capture the different crop and environmental vari-
experiments as shown by the plot of predicted ver-
ables we see good opportunities to utilise this
sus observed (measured) Micronaire (presented in
approach with some confidence to predict crop
Figure 1). There was tendency for the function to
Micronaire before harvest. This ability to predict
underpredict Micronaire across this dataset; im-
Micronaire will enable improved assessments of
portantly however, the function was able to cap-
the reasons for seasonal and regional differences in
ture the variation generated by the water deficit
Micronaire and assess management opportunities
treatments.
to improve Micronaire in both current and future
To represent the relative effects of the different climates. This understanding could also be linked
variables, a sensitivity analysis was undertaken with crop measurements taken with remote and
(Figure 3). Micronaire was predicted for three proximal sensing technologies to improve preci-
different boll sizes and three leaf areas (leaf area sion of prediction of fibre quality and capture spa-
indices) across mean temperatures for the fibre fill- tial variability in the field prior to harvest. Such
ing period. The sensitivity analysis showed that at linkages might be useful in the development of
lower mean temperatures, leaf area has little in- harvest strategies using these predictions that al-
fluence on Micronaire despite boll size, while boll low for segregation of fibre based on quality (with
size has a greater influence. At higher tempera- different modules) before being delivered to the
tures again the greatest influence on Micronaire cotton gin for processing allowing for improving
was from changes in boll size; however, there was fibre quality outcomes and potential economic re-
also a substantial effect of leaf area, highlighting turns growers.
the interaction of temperature and leaf area. From
Acknowledgments
a crop physiological perspective, the responses of
Micronaire to these variables in this manner are This paper is a summary of research published in
highlighting firstly, the effect of boll size at har- the journal Crop Science Vol. 62 pages 397 to 409
vest encapsulating the crop effects on both assimi- (2022). Cotton Seed Distributors for provision of
late supply and demand leading to effects on fibre cotton seed. The Australian Cotton Catchment
thickening during boll growth; and secondly that Communities Cooperative Research Centre and
as air temperature increases leading to increases the Cotton Research and Development Corpora-
in photosynthesis and subsequent assimilate sup- tion of Australia provided partial financial support
ply, the effect of increasing leaf area is diminished. for this work.
- 13 -
Table 1: The improvement in predictability of value 1 the better the functions ability to predict
linear regression when all variables were added. Micronaire.
The higher the ‘r2’ value and closer it is to the
Table 1: The improvement in predictability of linear regression when all variables were added. The
higher the ‘r2’ value and closer it is to the value 1 the better the functions ability to predict Mi-
cronaire.
Variable Improvement in Predictability

Micronaire versus Temperature r2 = 0.19
Add Boll Size r2 = 0.72
Add Leaf Area (LAI) r2 = 0.77
Add Interaction of Temperature and Leaf r2 = 0.79
Area
- 14 -
Figure 1. Validation of our functions that predict Micronaire on independent experiments. The graph
shows the predicted versus observed Micronaire values generated using datasets collected from five in-
dependent experiments. Blue points are those crops that have normal irrigations, whereas brown points
are treatments that have had an irrigation omitted causing a water deficit. Solid line is the line of best
fit. Dashed line is the 1:1 line. The further data is from the 1:1 line the greater the overall differences
from the actual versus predicted values. MAE is the mean absolute error which is the average of the
difference between the actual and predicted values.
Figure 2. A sensitivity analysis showing the degree of effects of the different variables affecting Mi-
cronaire; for three different individual boll sizes and three leaf areas (LAIs) across temperature for
the fibre filling period.
- 15 -

COTTON RESEARCHERS ASSOCIATION Disease in Australian
farmingCotton
systemsSystems
Authors:
Authors: GunaLinda Smith, Dinesh
Nachimuthu 1
, GraemeKafle Linda
Schwenke 2 Scheikowski
, Clarence
Linda.smith@daf.qld.gov.au
Australian Cotton Systems1NSW Linda.scheikowski@daf.qld.gov.au
Department of Primary Industries, Australian Cotton Research
Institute, Narrabri, NSW 2390
Dinesh.kafle@daf.qld.gov.au
mith, Dinesh Kafle Linda Scheikowski
2
3
d.gov.au Fenner School of Environment & Society, Australian National
daf.qld.gov.au 4
d.gov.au Queensland, Gatton, QLD
cotton plant growth. Most Australian solutions and extraction duration used.
The cotton-growing
Queensland Department of Agriculture
soils typically have high and the These
diseaseinclude
are a solution
sudden wilting
P (readilyandavailable
dying of
of internal reddening of roots and root decay;
clay contents,
Fisheries cation exchange
(QDAF) Pathology capacities
Team conducts forwith
re- plants immediate plant onuptake),
leaves remaining plant
the plant (Figure
QDAF) andandin total
crossP section,
contents, thebutinfected
many tissue
also have available soil P (Colwell P: an extraction
search funded by the Cotton Research and De- 1); dead plants with blackened stems (Figure 2);
unded may possesspH’s
alkaline a wedge-shaped
(>7.5) that can appearance
reduce P that simulates P release over a growing
pment velopment Corporation
andavailability.
has a reddish-grey (CRDC) focussed
colourdeficiency
(Figure 2).can on internal reddening of roots and root decay; and in
Phosphorus season and includes solution P), and
on providing
lead todiagnostic
poor capacity
seedling
The wilting and death of plants were for
vigour, fungal
stunted diseas-
plant cross section,
slowly the infected
available soil Ptissue may possess
or reserve P that a
fungal growth,
esobserved
and reniform delayed
to occur fromflowering,
nematode, conducting
squaring poor
and allboll wedge-shaped
atdisease may become plant available
appearance and hasover years. In
a reddish-grey
atode, retention
surveys
stages toof better and consequently
growthunderstand
there on,disease reduced
occurring issues lint
as and colour (Figure 2). The wilting and death ofcotton
most soils in the Australian plants
yield. Most Australian cotton farms are industry, reserve P can be approximated by
better trends
eitherthat
singledirect pathology
plants research, as well as were observed to occur from squaring and at all
or in patches.
designed as irrigated row cropping systems the difference between BSES P (0.005 M
ds that development of management strategies
with the capacity to saturate down to 1 m for key stages of growth
sulphuric there
acid on, occurring
extract as eitherand
for 16 hours) sin-
ell as Reoccurring
diseases
of the and soil wilt
reniform is
profile.caused
nematode. by a fungal
The 2021/22
Traditionally, this gle plants
Colwell or in
P patches.
(0.5 M sodium bicarbonate
ies for pathogen
design
season in
represented the
assists the family
thecotton
20th cropDiatrypaceae.
to accesscotton
consecutive soil extract for 16 hours), although the fraction
. The moisture
Comparison and
of nutrients
pathogen
disease surveys in Queensland. QDAF leads a deeper
isolates in
from the of this P available in any one year can vary
20th profile,
Queensland although
with other
reference soil constraints
sequences with the soil
Reoccurring wiltmineralogy
is caused by anda fertiliser use.
fungal patho-
national project
such as compaction to better understand cotton dis-
ys in representing Eutypellaand sodicity
species can limit
suggests Quantifying the BSES P and Colwell P at
eases,
thesoilroot
healthgrowth
and management
into deeper strategieslayers.that gen different
in the family Diatrypaceae. Comparison of
depths using archived samples
ational our isolates consist of two novel species pathogen isolates from Queensland
Previous
support research in of
the development thedisease
Australian grains
suppressive from five long-term croppingwith refer-
system
cotton (Figure 3). Closest relatives are Eutypella P enceexperiments
sequences (located
representing Eutypella species
soilsindustry has highlighted
in collaboration with Dr Gupta subsoil
Vadakattu in New South Wales)
ement scoparia causing Eutypa
depletion and P stratification in topsoil dieback on should improve the understanding of
(CSIRO) and NSW DPI pathology team led by suggests our isolates consist of two novel species
ent of over To
pecan. the our longknowledge
term. Irrigated
there are Vertisols
no current
(Figure 3). soil P status
Closest andare
relatives its Eutypella
stratification
sco-
oration Dr Duy
reports Le.
undergo of aDiatrypaceous
more intensivefungi crop production
causing and potential implications for future
O) and cycleonthan
disease cottondryland
worldwide.systems have the parianutrient
andresearch
This
causing Eutypa dieback on
management pecan. To in
strategies our
potential to deplete soil nutrient reserves at knowledge Australianthere are no reportssoils.
cotton-growing of Diatrypaceous
r Duy has been published in Australasian Plant
Firsta report
faster rate. Eutypella
of novel However, species scientific
causing fungi Thecausing disease
long-term on cotton
trends worldwide.with
and comparison This
Pathology.
information on the long-term changes in
disease in cotton research
nativehassites
beenshowed
published in Australasian
a decline Plant
in all three
soil P in Australian irrigated cotton
pecies Since 2019/20
growing
Reoccurring when
soilsisis
wilt alimited.
newly thedescribed
cause ofdisease this of Pathology.
and BSES P) in most of the locations
disease
Soilin in
cotton the Dawson
Australia.
inorganic canCallide
PSymptoms region using
associated
be assessed ofwith (average for BSES P presented in Table 1).
cribed Central Queensland was
several currently available commercial soil confirmed, This suggested a negative P balance in all
ptoms disease surveys of cotton across all
udden growing regions in Queensland and New
leaves South Wales has confirmed the disease is
1
; dead also present in Emerald, St George, Border - 16 -
re 2); Rivers, Mungindi, Walgett/Bourke and
Since 2019/20 when the cause of this disease in The Cotton Research and Development Corpora-
the Dawson Callide region of Central Queensland tion has funded new research by the Queensland
was confirmed, disease surveys of cotton across Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (QDAF)
all growing regions in Queensland and New South Pathology Team focussed on understanding the di-
Wales has confirmed the disease is also present versity of the pathogen and its lifecycle, to enable
in Emerald, St George, Border Rivers, Mungindi, management strategies to be developed for the cot-
Walgett/Bourke and Namoi valleys. The disease ton industry.
continues to spread within fields and to new fields.
Figure 1: Plants suddenly wilted and died from squaring and throughout the season to mature plants
Figure 2: Typical symptoms of reoccurring wilt include blackening of the stem and a redish Internal
reddish/grey discolouration of the stem and in cross-section may be wedge shaped.
- 17 -
Figure 3: Phylogenetic tree generated based on trimmed ITS1 (amplicons) and ITS1+5.8S+ITS2
(isolates) sequences. The specimens in this study are: Eutypella isolates from diseased cotton plants
in blue, Eutypella isolates from diseased cotton roots in green, community Operational Taxonomic
Unit (OTU) amplicons in purple and other neighbouring Eutypella species from Genbank in black
and red for those identified as Eutypella scoparia
Developing management strategies for Verticil- ulation studies in the glasshouse, using the two
lium Wilt prevalent Australian pathotypes (VCG 1A and
Verticillium wilt is a major economic constraint VCG 2A), have identified symptomatic infection
to cotton production worldwide. Successful in varieties of mungbean (Vigna radiata), black
control of soilborne plant diseases, such as Ver- gram, (Vigna mungo), faba bean (Vicia faba),
ticillium wilt involves management of infection pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan), soybean (Glycine
and disease incidence through targeted manage- max), butterfly pea (Clitoria ternatea), cowpea
ment strategies. Our research is aimed at reduc- (Vigna unguiculata), chickpea (Cicer arietinum),
ing the impact of this disease through improved wheat (Triticum aestivum), barley (Hordeum
understanding of the intricacies of complex mi- vulgare), triticale (x Triticosecale), oats (Avena
crobiome-pathogen interactions to identify man- sativa) and canary grass (Phalaris canariensis).
agement practices that can promote natural dis- Targeted surveillance of these crops grown in
ease suppression capacities of Australian cotton commercial fields will begin to fully understand
soils, including the influence of rotation crops. the impact alternate hosts may have on soil inoc-
Given the ever-expanding host range of Verticil- ulum levels and any potential survival carryover
lium dahliae, research is identifying disease risks on crop residues.
associated with growing alternate crops. Inoc- Field trials have shown that sorghum and corn
- 18 -
chickpea (Cicer arietinum), wheat bare fallow also resulting in a decline of V.
ternatea), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), is high (Figure 4). Despite two years of
(Triticum aestivum), barley (Hordeum dahliae, evaluation of soil microbial
chickpea (Cicer arietinum), wheat bare fallow also resulting in a decline of V.
vulgare), triticale (x Triticosecale), oats populations indicates that rotation to non-
(Triticum aestivum), barley (Hordeum dahliae, evaluation of soil microbial
(Avena sativa) and canary grass (Phalaris hosts, such as sorghum or corn, result in a
vulgare), triticale (x Triticosecale), oats populations indicates that rotation to non-
canariensis). Targeted surveillance of greater abundance of fungal populations
(Avena
are good and canary
sativa)options
rotation grass (Phalaris
for reducing inoculum hosts, such
compared as sorghum
to bare or corn,5).result
fallow (Figure Thus,in non-
a
these crops grown in commercial fields and general catabolic diversity compared
levelscanariensis). Targeted
and disease incidence, butsurveillance of
at least two years greater
hosts shouldabundance of fungal
aid in improving populations
microbial diversity
will begin to fully understand the impact to bare fallow (Figure 5). Thus, non-hosts
these crops
of rotation of grown
outhosts cotton in commercial
is required fieldsto andand general catabolic diversity compared
alternate may have on soil to begin
inoculum maintaining
should aid soil
in biological
improvingfunctions and be
microbial
will begin
significantly to fully
reduce understand
disease thewhen
incidence impact the to
better bare fallow
for overall (Figure 5). Thus, non-hosts
levels and any potential survival carryover diversity and soil biologicalsoil
maintaining health compared
biological
alternate
inoculum load hosts may have on soil inoculum
is high (Figure 4). Despite two should
to afunctions aid
bare fallow. in improving microbial
on crop residues. andCropbe rotation withoverall
better for non-hostssoiland
levels and any potential survival carryover diversity and maintaining soil biological
years of bare fallow also resulting in a decline of avoiding fallowhealth
biological is recommended
compared to to both reduce
a bare
on
Fieldcrop residues.
trials have shown that sorghum and functions and be better for overall soil
V. dahliae, evaluation of soil microbial popula- pathogen
fallow.inoculum along with
Crop rotation with non-hosts
maintaining andand
corn are good rotation options for reducing biological health compared to a bare
tionsField trialsthat
indicates have showntothat
rotation sorghum
non-hosts, andas
such improving
avoidingoverall
fallowsoilis microbial diversity
recommended and bi-
to both
inoculum levels and disease incidence, but fallow. Crop rotation with non-hosts and
corn or
sorghum arecorn,
goodresult
rotation
in aoptions
greater for reducingof
abundance reducehealth.
ological pathogen inoculum along with
at least two years of rotation out of cotton avoiding fallow is recommended to both
inoculum
fungal levels
andand disease incidence, but maintaining and improving overall soil
is populations
required to begin general catabolic
to significantly diversity
reduce reduce pathogen inoculum along with
at least two years of rotation out of cotton microbial diversity and biological health.
disease incidence when the inoculum load maintaining and improving overall soil
is required to begin to significantly reduce
microbial diversity and biological health.
disease incidence when the inoculum load
Figure 4: Effect of either one year (A) or two years (B) of crop rotation compared to
Figure 4: Effectcotton
continuous of either one year (A)disease
on Verticillium or two incidence
years (B) in
of the
cropsubsequent
rotation compared to continuous
cotton crop. C/f/S
Figure 4:
indicates Effect of
corn, fallow either one
or sorghum year (A) or two years (B) of crop rotation compared to
cotton on Verticillium disease incidenceas in the subsequent
crop in thecotton
first year.
crop. Corn/s indicatescorn,
C/f/S indicates cornfallow
or
continuous cotton
sorghum asasthe
thecropon Verticillium
cropin in the first disease incidence in the subsequent cotton crop. C/f/S
or sorghum
indicates the
or first year.year. Bars with different
Corn/s
as the indicates
crop in corn
letters areassignificantly
or sorghum the crop different
in the first year.
from eachcorn,
other fallow
(p<0.05). sorghum the first year. Corn/s indicates corn or
Bars with different
sorghum as the letters
crop inarethesignificantly
first year. different
Bars withfrom each other
different (p<0.05).
letters are significantly different
from each other (p<0.05).
Figure 5: Effect of two years of crop rotation sequences on microbial catabolic diversity (L)
and total soil fungal populations (R) in surface 10 cm soil. C/f/S indicates corn, fallow or
Figure 5:as
sorghum Effect of two
the crop in years of crop
the first year.rotation sequences
Bars with on letters
different microbial
are catabolic diversity
significantly (L)
different
and total
from5:each
Figure soil fungal
other
Effect populations
(p<0.05)
of two years (Gupta rotation sequences on microbial catabolic diversity (L) andorto-
(R) in
of cropVadakattu)surface 10 cm soil. C/f/S indicates corn, fallow
sorghum as the crop in the first year. Bars with different letters are significantly different
tal .from
soil fungal populations
each other (p<0.05)(R)(Gupta
in surface 10 cm soil. C/f/S indicates corn, fallow or sorghum as the
Vadakattu)
crop in the first year. Bars with different letters are significantly different from each other (p<0.05)
.
(Gupta Vadakattu)
15
15
- 19 -
Distribution of reniform nematode in and more potato,
as temperate thatzones in Queensland
Australian cotton soils andsweet
New South Wales thisother
in plant
cropsparasite
such
The first detection
Australian cotton soils of reniform nematode and
wouldNew South
happily Wales
survive in
in other crops
cotton such
growing
as sweet potato, that this plant parasite
(Rotylenchus
The first detection reniformis)
of reniform in Australian
nematode as sweet south
regions potato,ofthat this plant
Central parasite
Queensland.
The first detection of reniform nematode would happily survive in cotton growing
would
Hence happily survive in cotton growing
cotton was recorded
(Rotylenchus reniformis) in a single field in
in Australian regions the southcontinued
of Central surveying and
Queensland.
(Rotylenchus reniformis) in Australian regions south
monitoring of of Central
reniform Queensland.
nematode is very
Emerald,
cotton was Queensland
recorded on in Nov 11, 2003.
a single field Noin Hence the continued surveying and
cotton was recorded in a single field in Hence
important the forcontinued surveying and
the Australian
further detections
Distribution of reniformwere nematode made until
in2003.
Australianan monitoring
reniform nematodeof reniform nematodeforiscotton
is very important very
Emerald, Queensland on Nov
Emerald, Queensland on Nov 11, 2003. No
11, No monitoring
industry, of reniform
particularly nematode
asAustralian
there is no isthe Aus-
very
host
investigation of stunted important for the cotton
cotton soils detections
further were plantsmade led untilto the
an tralian cotton available
important
resistance industry,
for theparticularly
in asAustralian
Australian as there is
or no
cotton
further detections were made until an industry, particularly there is cotton
no host
identification of reniform
investigation of stunted plants led to the nematode in industry,
hostregistered particularly
resistanceavailable
available as there is no host
The investigation
first detectionofofstunted reniform nematode
plants led to(Roty-the resistance chemicals, in in Australian
so management
Australian cotton
cotton or or
Theodore, Queensland
identification of reniform nematode in on Nov 23, 2012. A resistance
options available
are limited. in Australian cotton
optionsorare
identification
lenchus reniformis)ofin reniform Australian nematodecotton wasinre- registered chemicals,
registered
registered
so management
chemicals,
chemicals,
so management
so management
comprehensive
Theodore, Queensland soil surveyon Novof23,Theodore 2012. A options are limited.
limited.
Theodore,
corded in a Queensland
single field in on Nov 23,
Emerald, 2012. A
Queensland options are limited.
cotton fields was commissioned
comprehensive soil survey of Theodore to map
comprehensive
on Nov soil survey of Theodore
cotton11,fields
distribution 2003. ofwas No further
thecommissioned
pathogen. detections
Reniform
to map were
made cotton fields was
until an investigation commissioned
of to map
nematodes
distribution were
of the found to stunted
pathogen. plants led
be widespread,
Reniform
distribution
to the identification of the pathogen. Reniform
inhabiting
nematodes 72 of
were reniform
75% toof nematode
– found befields inin the
widespread, The-
nematodes were found to be widespread,
odore, Queensland
northern
inhabiting 72 on
districts, – 49%Nov
75%of 23,
of 2012.
fieldsAfields
sampled compre-
in to
the
inhabiting 72 – 75% of fields in the
the
hensive south
northern of Theodore
soil survey
districts, 49% as
of Theodore well
cotton
of sampled as afields
limitedwas
to
northern districts, 49% of sampled fields to
area
commissioned in Emerald.
to map distribution
the south of Theodore as well as a limited of the patho-
the south of Theodore as well as a limited
gen.area
Disease
in Emerald.
Reniform nematodes
surveys are were found toannually
conducted be wide-
area in Emerald.
spread,
across inhabitingcotton 72 – 75% of fieldsregions in the north-
Disease all surveys aregrowing conducted annually in
Disease
ern districts, surveys
49% of are
sampled conducted
fields to annually
the south
Queensland
across all cotton and New growingSouth regionsWales in to
across all
of Theodore as cotton
well as a growingarearegions
limited in in
Emerald.
ascertain
Queensland the and incidenceNew and Southimportance
Wales of to
Queensland and New South Wales to
disease
ascertain
Disease early
surveysthe areand late season.
incidence
conducted In Theodore,
and importance
annually of
across
ascertain the incidence and importance of
the
disease highearlyreniform latepressure
andregions season. InatTheodore,
planting
all cotton growing
disease early and late season. In Theodore,in Queensland and
continues
the high to impact seedling
reniform pressure development
at planting
Newthe South highWalesreniformto ascertain
pressure the incidence
at planting and
(Figure 7).
continues to impactTo determine if reniform
seedling development
importance
continues of todisease
impactearly and late
seedling season. In
development Figure 6: Reniform females and eggs
nematode7).hasTospread
(Figure determine to other cotton
if reniform
(Figurethe7).highTo
Theodore, determine
reniform pressure if atreniform
planting (stained
Figure pink) on cotton females
6: Reniform root and eggs
growing
nematoderegions, has spreadsoil samples to otherare collected
cotton Figure
Figure 6: Reniform
6: Reniform femalesfemales and (stained
and eggs eggs
nematode
continues to has seedling
impact spread to other cotton
development (Fig- (stained pink) on cotton root
early
growing season
regions, fromsoil around
samplesthe roots of
are collected (stained
pink) pink)root
on cotton on cotton root
ure growing
7).
plants To
early season
regions, soil
determine
being assessed if
from around
samples are
reniform
for disease.
collected
nematode
the roots Soil ofhas
is
early
spread to season
other cotton from aroundregions,
growing the roots soil of
sam-
collected
plants being early seasonforrather
assessed disease. than Soillate
is
plesplants
are
season
collected
being assessed
collected
for early early
ease ofseason
for disease.
season from
soil collection
rather than
Soil is
around
in heavy the
late
collected early season rather than late
rootsclayof plants
season soils
for easebeing
thatof assessed
Australian
soil for disease.
collection cotton
in heavy Soil
is
season for ease of soil collection in heavy
commonly
is collected
clay soils early that grown.
season rather than
Australian Plant-parasitic
late season
cotton is
clay soils that Australian cotton is
nematodes
for ease
commonly are grown.
of soil collection extractedin heavyfrom soilsoils
clay
Plant-parasitic using
that
commonly grown. Plant-parasitic
the whitehead
nematodes
Australian cottonare tray method
extracted from andsoil counted
using
nematodes areis commonly
extracted from grown. soilPlant-par-
using
(based
asiticthenematodes on
whitehead are morphology)
tray method
extracted from under
andsoil counted
using the
the
the whitehead tray method and counted
microscope.
(based tray
whitehead To
on morphology) date no underreniform
(basedthe
(based on method and counted
morphology) under theon
nematodes
microscope. have To been detected
date no outside
reniform of Figure 7. Extensive infection of cotton
morphology)
microscope. underTo the microscope.
date no To date no Figure
reniform 7. Extensive infection of cotton seedling
Central
nematodes Queensland.
have been detected outside of seedling
Figure roots
7. by reniform
Extensive nematode
infection of cotton
reniform
nematodes nematodes have have been been detected detected
outside outside
of roots by reniform
Figure nematode
7. Extensive infection of cotton
Central Queensland. seedling roots by reniform nematode
It
of Centralis known
Queensland.
Central Queensland. however from the spread of seedling roots by reniform nematode
reniform nematode to the Lockyer Valley
It isIt is known
Itknown
is known howeverhowever
however fromfrom the the
from spread
the
spread
spread
of
of reni-
of
reniform nematode to the Lockyer Valley
formreniform
nematode nematode
to the Lockyerto the Lockyer
Valley and Valley
more
temperate zones in Queensland and New South
16
Wales in other crops such as sweet potato, that
16
this plant parasite would happily survive in cot- 16
ton growing regions south of Central Queensland.
Hence the continued surveying and monitoring of
- 20 -

farming systems
The Challenges
Authors: of Breeding
Guna Nachimuthu 1 for Verticillium
, Graeme Wilt Resistance in
Schwenke2, Clarence
the Australian Cotton Breeding
Mercer2, Nilantha Hulugalle3Program
and Mike Bell4
The Challenges
Authors: Lucyof Breeding
Egan for Verticillium
and Warwick Stiller Wilt
1
Resistance inofthe
Lucy.Egan@csiro.au
NSW Department Australian
Primary Industries, Cotton
AustralianBreeding
Cotton Research
Institute, Narrabri, NSW 2390
2 Program
3
Fenner Authors:
School of Lucy Egan and
Environment & Warwick Stiller National
Society, Australian
4 Lucy.Egan@csiro.au
Verticillium wilt (VW) is a critical disease world standards, CSIRO cotton varieties
tocotton
the Australian
Verticillium plant(VW)
wilt cotton
growth. industry.
Most
is a critical It toisthe
Australian
disease have high levels
solutions of Science
and extraction resistance to Industrial
durationVW, used.but Re-
The Commonwealth and
caused by the soil-borne
cotton-growing fungal have
soils typically pathogenhigh modern high-input
TheseOrganisation
include solutionmanagement
P (readily practices
available
Australian cotton industry. It is caused by the search (CSIRO) cotton breeding
Verticillium
clay contents, cationKleb
dahliae and has
exchange two
capacities aimed at producing
for immediate plant very uptake),
high yields, plant
soil-borne fungal pathogen Verticillium dahliae program supplies 100% of the varieties to the
and total
causal P contents,
pathotypes: but many also(ND)
non-defoliating have available soil P (Colwell
changing environmental conditions, and P: an extraction
Klebalkaline
and has pH’s
two causal pathotypes:
(>7.5)In that non-defoli-
can reduce Australian industry.P By worldover standards, CSIRO
and defoliating (D). Australia, the DP thatincrease
the simulates release
in prevalence (and a possible
growing
ating availability. Phosphorus (D). deficiency
vegetative compatibility group (VCG) the
(ND) and defoliating In Australia, can
is D season
cotton and
varieties
virulence) of the includes
have solution
high ensures
disease levels P), and to
ofresistance
resistance
lead to poor seedlinggroup
vegetative vigour, stunted plant slowly availablehigh-input
soil P or management
reserve P that
1A, andcompatibility
the ND VCGs are 2A (VCG) is 1A,
and 4B. Theand VW,
to VW but ismodern
a key breeding target. The firstprac-
the characteristic
ND VCGs aresymptoms 2A and 4B.ofThe VW characteristic
include tices
CSIROaimedcultivar
at producing very high yields, chang-
retention and consequently reduced lint most soils in with significant
the Australian VW
cotton
symptoms
plant of VW
yield.wilting, include
Most mottled
Australian plant wilting,
and reddening
cotton farms ofmottled
the
are ing environmental
resistance
industry, was conditions,
reserve released inand1991
P can be approximated the increase
andby in
andleaves,
reddening ofirrigated
as the leaves,
designeddefoliation, row defoliation,
cropping
vascular browning vascular
systems prevalence (and possible
the difference
showed higher yields virulence)
between P of
BSESsignificantly
and the disease
(0.005 M
with
browning the
(Figure(Figurecapacity
1) and 1) reducedto saturate down to 1 m
yield. yield.
and reduced sulphuric
reduced
ensures levelsacidofto
resistance extract
VW isfor
infection a and16 symptoms.
key hours) and
breeding target.
of the soil profile. Traditionally, this Colwell
The majority P (0.5
of the M sodium
CSIRO
The first CSIRO cultivar with significant VW re- bicarbonate
cultivars now
design assists the cotton crop to access soil extract for 16 hours), although the fraction
grown was
sistance commercially
released in inhave
1991 relatively
and strong
showed higher
moisture and nutrients deeper in the of this P available any one year can vary
profile, although other soil constraints resistance
yields
withand to both
thesignificantly
soil mineralogy pathotypes,
reduced particularly
andlevels of infection
fertiliser use.
such as compaction and sodicity can limit to non-defoliating
Quantifying the BSES VW,
and symptoms. The majority of the CSIROatcul-
P but
and significant
Colwell P
the root growth into deeper layers. yield losses
different
tivars now can commercially
depths
grown still
usingoccur archivedinhaveseasonal
samples
relatively
Previous research in the Australian grains from five that
conditions long-term favourcropping the disease. system
industry has highlighted subsoil P strong resistance(located
experiments to bothinpathotypes, Southparticularly
Nevertheless, several New challenges Wales)
are
depletion and P stratification in topsoil to non-defoliating VW,the but significant yield losses
associated when breeding for VWof
should improve understanding
over the long term. Irrigated Vertisols cancurrent soil inP seasonal
still occur status and its stratification
conditions that favour
resistance.
undergo a more intensive crop production the and potential
disease. Nevertheless, implications for future
cycle than dryland systems and have the Firstly,
nutrientour VW disease several
management trials challenges
are
strategies locatedin are
associated
atAustralian whenthat
field sites breeding
have aforhistoryVW resistance.
potential to deplete soil nutrient reserves at cotton-growing soils. of heavy
a faster rate. However, scientific diseaseour VW
Firstly, pressure. Multi-site disease
The long-termdisease trends trials are located
and comparison at field
with
information on the long-term changes in nurseries
sites that haveare critical for the development
Figure 1. Vascular browning of a cotton native sitesashowed
history of heavy disease
a decline in all pressure.
three
soil P in Australian irrigated cotton of resistant germplasm to expose
stem
Figure 1.cause
growing by Verticillium
Vascular
soils limited. wilt.
is browning of a cotton stem measurements
Multi-site disease of P (Solution
nurseries P, Colwell
are critical forthe
theP de-
populations
and BSES toP) different
in most isolates
of the of VW.
locations
causeSoil
by Verticillium velopment of resistant germplasm to expose the
inorganic Pwilt. can be assessed using (average for
However, BSES Pa presented
within single in Tablethe
field 1).
The Commonwealth Science and populations to different isolates of VW. However,
several currently available commercial soil distribution of inoculum is often unevenall
This suggested a negative P balance in
Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) within a single field the distribution of inoculum is
cotton breeding program supplies 100% of which provides challenges for the
the varieties to the Australian industry. By placement of field trials. Therefore,
- 211 -
often uneven which provides challenges for the to D, and vice versa. Our current suite of com-
placement of field trials. Therefore, knowledge mercial varieties has a similar level of resistance
of the field history is important to identify dis- to both pathotypes. However, from a breeding
ease ‘hotspots’ that can aid with decisions about perspective we must increase the level of resis-
trial placement. tance. Although the ND pathotype appears to
Secondly, when we are breeding for resistance to be more prevalent within the cotton growing
VW, each pathotype must be treated as a separate regions of Australia, the breeding program con-
breeding target, as we have evidence that resis- tinues to breed for resistance to both pathotypes
tance to ND doesn’t necessarily mean resistance (Figure 2a and b).
Figure 2. The phenotypic progress of advanced non-defoliating resistant material compared to a

commercial variety when planted in a Verticillium wilt disease nursery (a and b).
Lastly, we are continually trying to improve our bioassay, and it is not present in the field. There
screening methods to discriminate the levels of are already significant challenges around finding
resistance to both pathotypes in germplasm. Cur- new sources of resistance and genomic regions
rently, we use a controlled environment root dip that control resistance to VW, and without a reli-
assay. The root dip bioassay is valuable as it is able bioassay, this is complicated further.
high-throughput, fast and we have results with-
In summary, VW resistance has been a key breed-
in 6 weeks. However, there are limitations. The
ing target for the CSIRO cotton breeding pro-
process of root dipping involves uprooting the
gram for many decades and is likely to remain
plants which causes significant root damage and
critical in the future. We are working to improve
is not fully representative of what we see in the
our existing screening methods which will aid in
field. If we find resistance in the bioassay and this
identifying new sources of resistance and may
is validated in the field, then we know we have
enable the identification of the genomic regions
identified a robust source of resistance. However,
controlling said resistance.
the problem arises when we find resistance in the
- 22 -
ARCHERS ASSOCIATION
Phosphorus stratification
mycorrhizainfungi
Australian Cotton
a fungi an exciting new
Are arbuscular
misunderstoodfarming
hero in systems
cotton?
an exciting new player or
od hero in cotton? Authors:

Authors:
GunaYui Osanai1, ,Chris
Nachimuthu Cosgrove2
Graeme Schwenke and Oliver Knox1
, Clarence 1 2
School of Environmental
Mercer2, and Rural
Nilantha Hulugalle3 Science,
and Mike Bell4 The University of
1New England, NSW, 2351, Australia
osgrove2 and Oliver Knox
1
NSW Sustenance
Department ofAsia, Hobart,
Primary Tasmania,
Industries, 7004, Research
Australian Cotton Australia
Institute, Narrabri, NSW
oknox@une.edu.au 2390
2
al Science, The University of Tamworth, NSW 2340
Institute
2351, Australia 3
smania, 7004, Australia 4The School of Agriculture and Food sciences, The University of
edu.au Queensland, Gatton, QLD
Arbuscular
cotton mycorrhizal
plant growth. (AM)Most fungi form a mutu-
Australian phosphorus,
solutions however, in the majority
and extraction durationofused.Austra-
al relationship with many plants, including high
cotton-growing soils typically have cotton These include solution P (readily
lian cotton systems mobile nitrogen (N) is gen- available
clay contents, cation exchange
(Nehl and McGee 2010). They occur in most soils, capacities for theimmediate
erally plant uptake),
most growth-limiting nutrient. plant
What if
majorityandofand total P contents, but many also have
formAustralian
extensive underground cotton
alkaline pH’s (>7.5) that can reduce P
systems
networks of hy-
available soil P (Colwell P: an extraction
AM have an important role in N uptake?
that simulates P release over a growing
pha availability.
that both(N)
mobile nitrogen explore
is agenerally
large volume
Phosphorus of soil
the
deficiency most
canand season and includes solution P), andRe-
A field experiment at the Australian Cotton
leadnutrients
access to poorand seedling
other soilvigour, stuntedThey
resources. plantdo slowly available soil P or reserve P that
growth-limiting
all this in return for carbon from their host have
growth, nutrient.
delayed What
flowering, if AM
poor boll
plant.
search Institute was established to test whether
may become plant available over years. In
retention and consequently reduced lint AMmostassociation
soils improved cotton growth
in the Australian and, if
cotton
an important
They arerole alsoin N uptake?
linked to other soil health benefits,
yield. Most Australian cotton farms are so,industry,
what wasreserve
the mechanism
P can be behind it.
approximated by
A field suchexperiment
as improving
designed soilatstructure
as irrigated rowthe and
cropping soil
Australiancarbon
systems the difference between BSES P (0.005 M
To sulphuric
do this, weacidconstructed root16containment bags
sequestration and so could
with the capacity be essential
to saturate down tofor 1m im- extract for hours) and
Cotton Research
of the Institute
soil profile. was established
Traditionally,
proving nutrient use efficiency, drought tolerance this thatColwell
allowed PAM(0.5 hyphae to grow out
M sodium of the bags,
bicarbonate
and design
to test whether assistssustainability.
AM the
agricultural cotton crop to access soil
association improved extract for
to explore 16 hours),
a greater volumealthough
of soilthe fraction
through their
moisture and nutrients deeper in the of this P available in any one year
extensive hyphal network, while restricting the can vary
cotton growth
Withprofile,
regard and,
to if so,
although
cotton, otherwhat
previous soil was
constraints
studies into AMthe with the soil mineralogy and fertiliser use.
growth of cotton roots (Figure 1). Lifting the bags
benefits are often inconclusive, despite demon- can limit Quantifying the BSES P and Colwell P at
mechanism behind
the root it.growth into deeper layers. wasdifferent
used as adepths
means tousing
disrupt and limitsamples
archived the hyphal
strating root colonisation (Eskandari et al. 2018).
Previous
To do Oneindustry
this, research
we in the Australian grains
constructed root network
from and fivethelong-term
field experiment
croppingtested whether
system
potential reason for this
has highlighted is that subsoil
the benefit Pof theexperiments
effect of AM (located in New
association onSouth
growth Wales)
differed
containment
forming bags
depletion that
and Pallowed
the symbiosis stratification AMin hyphae
could be costing topsoil
the plant should improve the understanding of
between normal N and reduced N fertiliser levels.
to growmore out carbon than there are benefits from the im-
undergoof athe more bags,
intensive to cropexplore
production a Of and
the 48potential
bags established, only 37for
implications madefuture
it to the
proved nutrient recovery. However, another pos-
final analysis because cotton had failed to germi-
greater sible
volume
cycle thanof
reason is that soil
dryland
the
systemsthrough
nutrients
and have their
being
the
studied
nutrient management strategies in
potential to deplete soil nutrient reserves at Australian
nated in one ofcotton-growing
the intact and soils.
three of the cutt-off
extensivewere
hyphal fasternetwork,
a perhaps not rate.
the most while
important.
However, restricting
Most work
scientific bags
Theand, upon thetrends
long-term final recovery, seven bags
and comparison withhad
information
looking on theof long-term changes hasinfo-
the growth ofatPthe
soil in
benefit
cotton Australian
AM association
roots (Figure
irrigated cotton 1). native sites showed a decline in
failed to contain cotton roots so were exluded. all three
cused on the uptake of immobile nutrients, like measurements of P (Solution P, Colwell P
Lifting the growing
bags soils wasis used
limited. as a means to
and BSES P) in most of the locations
disrupt andSoil inorganic P can be assessed using
limit the hyphal network and
several currently available commercial soil
(average for BSES P presented in Table 1).
This suggested a negative P balance in all
the field experiment tested whether the
effect of AM association on growth
differed between normal N and reduced -N2 31 -
Figure.
Figure.11Schematic
Schematicdiagram
diagramofofAM AMroot
rootcontainment
containmentbagbag
treatment as as
treatment applied in field.
applied In the
in field. In AM
the AM
intact intact treatment
treatment a), rootisgrowth
a), root growth is contained
contained within thewithin
mesh the
bagmesh
whilebag
AMwhile AM
hyphae arehyphae
allowed to
are allowed to grow out of the bag. In the AM cut-off treatment b), after three weeks of initial
grow out of the bag. In the AM cut-off treatment b), after three weeks of initial growth, the bag is
growth, the bag is lifted every week to cut off any AM hyphae that have grown out of the
lifted
bag. every week to cut off any AM hyphae that have grown out of the bag.
Lifting
Lifting thethebags
bagsand
anddisconnecting
disconnectingthe theAM
AMnet- this
AMexperiment
associationalso proved and
is important in quantified
our cotton the
work reduced
network early early
reduced cottoncotton
growth, and this
growth, andwas growth
systems. benefit providedthis
In addition, by the local, pre-exist-
experiment also
explained
this was by low N uptake
explained by lowinNthe cotton,
uptake which
in the ing AM communities.
proved and quantifiedSecondly,
the growth it proved
benefitthat
cotton,that
implied whichAMimplied that does
association AM association
benefit cotton provided
the benefit ofbyAM theassociation
local, pre-existing AM to
is not restricted
does benefit
growth. The AMcottonbenefit growth. The was
in this study AMob- communities.
immobile Secondly,
nutrients, such asitphosphorus,
proved thatand theim-
benefit
served to inbe this study
greater wasthe
under observed
normal to be of
level benefit
plies that of
weAMneedassociation is not
to reassess the restricted
potential of AM
N greater
fertiliserunder the and
treatments, normal level of toNthe
was equivalent to immobile nutrients, such as phosphorus,
as a misunderstood hero in our cotton systems.
fertiliser
growth treatments,
benefit providedandbywas equivalent to
the application of N and implies that we need to reassess the
the growth benefit provided by the There is a general
potential of AMassumption that soil biology
as a misunderstood hero is
fertiliser.
application of N fertiliser. negatively affected
in our cotton by agricultural practice, such
systems.
While
While thisthis
study only only
study focused on early
focused ongrowth
early of asThere
tillageisand agrochemical
a general use (Osanai
assumption et al.
that soil
thegrowth
cotton,ofitthe
demonstrated that AM association
cotton, it demonstrated that 2020),
biology so applying AM propagules
is negatively to soilsbywith
affected
is important in our cotton systems. In addition, reduced soil biology could improve cotton yield.
20
- 24 -
agricultural practice, such as tillage and provide benefits to cotton, so more robust
agrochemical use (Osanai et al. 2020), so strategies to capitalise on this important
However,
applying there
AM are propagules
more unreliable than reliable
to soils with component may simply
soil biological revolve around
component improved
may simply
AMreduced
products onbiology
soil the market
could(Elliott
improve et al. 2019)
cotton farm management
revolve practicesimproved
around focusing on improved
farm
yield.as However,
as well differencesthere are more
between unreliable
different AM spe- management
periods of live rootspractices focusing
in the system, which is on
one of
ciesthan reliable
to benefit AM
their products
host on the
plants. This market
field experi- theimproved periods
core concepts of theofAustralian
live roots in the
Cotton Indus-
ment(Elliott et al.
revealed that2019) as wellAM
the existing as differences
communities system,
tries which Framework
Soil Health is one of the core concepts
(Figure 2).
between
provide different
benefits AM so
to cotton, species to benefit
more robust strate- of the Australian Cotton Industries Soil
their host plants. This field experiment
gies to capitalise on this important soil biological Health Framework (Figure 2).
revealed that the existing AM communities
Figure 2. An schematic of the proposed Sustainable Soils Framework for Australian Cotton pro-
Figure 2. An schematic of the proposed Sustainable Soils Framework for Australian Cotton
duction, that would fit other production systems. The framework is developed based on the two key
production, that would fit other production systems. The framework is developed based on
principles
the twoofkey
protecting soilofhabitat
principles and feeding
protecting the soil
soil habitat andbiology,
feedingwhich would
the soil AM. would
benefitwhich
biology,
benefit AM.
Elliott AJ, Daniell TJ, Cameron DD, Field KJ (2019) A commercial arbuscular mycorrhizal inocu-
Elliott AJ, Daniell TJ, Cameron DD, Field cotton systems. Applied Soil
lum increases root colonization across wheat cultivars but does not increase assimilation of mycor-
KJ (2019) A commercial arbuscular Ecology 126: 199-201. doi:
rhiza-acquired nutrients. PLANTS, PEOPLE, PLANET n/a. doi: 10.1002/ppp3.10094.
mycorrhizal inoculum increases root https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apsoil.2018.
Eskandaricolonization
S, Guppy CN,across
Knoxwheat cultivars D, Haling RE
OGG, Backhouse 01.008.
(2018) Understanding the impact of
buton
soil sodicity does not increase
mycorrhizal assimilation
symbiosis: Someoffacts andNehl DB, from
gaps identified McGee PA
cotton systems. (2010)
Applied
mycorrhiza-acquired
Soil Ecology nutrients. Ecophysiology
126: 199-201. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apsoil.2018.01.008. of arbuscular
PLANTS, PEOPLE, PLANET n/a. mycorrhizas in cotton. Physiology
Nehl DB, McGee PA (2010) Ecophysiology of arbuscular mycorrhizas in cotton. Physiology of
doi: 10.1002/ppp3.10094. of Cotton. Springer.
Cotton. Springer.
Eskandari S, Guppy CN, Knox OGG, Osanai Y, Knox O, Nachimuthu G, Wilson
Osanai Y,Backhouse D, HalingG, RE
Knox O, Nachimuthu (2018)
Wilson B (2020)
B (2020) Contrasting Contrasting
agricultural managementagricultural
effects on
Understanding
soil organic the between
carbon dynamics impact topsoil
of soiland subsoil. Soil
management effects
Research 59: 24-33.on soil organic
sodicity on mycorrhizal symbiosis: carbon dynamics between topsoil
Some facts and gaps identified from and subsoil. Soil Research 59: 24-33.
21
- 25 -

Synthetic Biology: The systems
farming Key to a New Era of Elite Cultivar
Development?
Authors: Demi
Mercer2, Sargent1,
Nilantha Lily Chen1,
Hulugalle3 Warren
and Mike Bell4 Conaty2, David
Tissue1,3 and Robert Sharwood1*
1
NSW1 Department
Hawkesbury Institute
of Primary for the
Industries, Environment,
Australian Western Sydney
Cotton Research
University,
Institute, Narrabri, Richmond
NSW 2390 NSW, Australia, 2753
2
NSW Department of
2 Australian Primary
Cotton Industries,Institute,
Research Tamworth CSIRO,
Agricultural
Narrabri, NSW
3 Australia
3Global
University, Centre
Acton, ACT for Land Based Innovation, Western Sydney
4
TheUniversity, Richmond,
School of Agriculture and NSW 2753 Australia
Food sciences, The University of
d.sargent@westernsydney.edu.au
cotton plant
Conventional breedinggrowth. Most have
techniques Australian
been in- solutions
opments and extraction
in SynBio have tappedduration used.
into a multifacet-
cotton-growing soils typically
tegral to the development of many agronomically have high These include
ed approach, solution
expanding theP capabilities
(readily available
of genet-
clay contents, cation exchange capacities for immediate plant uptake), plant
important traitsP in
and total cotton including
contents, but manyfibre also quality
have ic engineering.
available soilSynBio encompasses
P (Colwell approaches
P: an extraction
attributes, crop maturity and disease
alkaline pH’s (>7.5) that can reduce P resistance. thatthat
design and construct
simulates new biological
P release elements
over a growing
availability.
Modern biotechnologyPhosphorus deficiency
applications such ascan ge- (e.g.season
enzymes,andgenetic
includes solution
circuits, cells) P), and
or redesign
lead to poor seedling vigour, stunted
netic modification (GM) of crops has enabled trait plant newslowly available functions
and improved soil P or into
reserve P thatbio-
existing
developments beyond the capacity or efficiency of logical systems. Synthetic biology pipelines are
retention and consequently reduced lint most soils in the Australian cotton
conventional
yield. Most breeding, such as
Australian insectfarms
cotton and herbi-
are beginning
industry,toreserve
adopt commonly used engineering
P can be approximated by
cide designed
resistanceas(e.g. Bt cotton).
irrigated However,
row cropping climat-
systems terms
thesuch as ‘switch’,
difference between‘rewire’,
BSESand the ‘design,
P (0.005 M
with the capacity to saturate down
ic conditions, insect pests and pathogens continue to 1m sulphuric acid extract for 16 hours)
test, simulate, learn cycle’ (Figure 1). A selection and
to hinder cotton productivity, and their incidence of key SynBio technologies are described in Ta-
design assists the cotton crop to access soil extract for 16 hours), although the fraction
is increasing
moisture with and climate
nutrients change.
deeper These
in com-the ble of
1. this
NewPopportunities
available in anyto advance
one yearbreeding
can varyap-
plex profile,
challenges would require
although other traits
soil that are more
constraints plications
with thethrough applying modular
soil mineralogy approaches
and fertiliser use.
genetically complex than can be developed can limit
effi- Quantifying the BSES P and Colwell
include the targeted introduction of new genes P at
the root growth into deeper
ciently through conventional breeding or tradi- layers. of different depths using
known function, complex archived samples
multi-genic traits
tional genetic engineering.
industry has highlightedAdditionally, pressure
subsoil P through gene stacking,
experiments (locatedartificial
in Newcreation of genet-
South Wales)
to generate
depletion or tap
andintoP new sources ofingenetic
stratification topsoildi- ic variation, topical application
should improve of small RNAs
the understanding of as
overis increasing.
versity the long term. Irrigated
Ultimately, moreVertisols
advanced current soiland
biopesticides, P faster
status development
and its stratification
of cultivars
undergo a more intensive crop
trait development approaches are required to production with sophisticated traits to improve cropfuture
and potential implications for produc-
cycle than dryland systems and have the nutrient management strategies in
maintain and improve yields and production effi- tivity.
potential to deplete soil nutrient reserves at Australian cotton-growing soils.
ciency.
a Tofaster
meet the industry
rate. demands ofscientific
However, desirable
The long-term trends and comparison with
information
cotton onofthe
traits, a suite long-term
synthetic changes
biology (SynBio) in
native sites showed a decline in all three
soil P in Australian
tools will need to be adopted. irrigated cotton As genetic engineering has become more so-
growing soils is limited. phisticated, it has
and BSES P) become
in mostseen
of as
thea locations
solution for
Traditional genetic modification has taken a more
Soil inorganic P can be assessed using tackling a multitude
(average for BSESof issues thatinare
P presented apparent
Table 1).
straightforward approach
several currently withcommercial
available focus on singlesoil This suggested a negative P balance in all
in agricultural industries. For example, modular
genes or components of a pathway, whereas devel-
cloning strategies can rapidly stack and transfer
1
- 26 -
As genetic engineering has become more can be developed more efficiently than
sophisticated, it has become seen as a through traditional breeding or GM. The
solution for tackling a multitude of issues uptake of biofoundaries in state-of-art
that are apparent
multiple genes in in agricultural
a single industries.
transgenic event, either research facilities
state-of-art has enabled
research facilities the the in-
has enabled
For example, modular cloning strategies integration of high-throughput molecular
derived from an organism or synthetically gener- tegration of high-throughput molecular biology
can rapidly stack and transfer multiple biology techniques that incorporate
ated. Therefore, more complex traits can be de- techniques that incorporate robotics, analysis and
genes in a single transgenic event, either robotics, analysis and data management,
veloped more efficiently than through traditional data management, therefore consolidating genetic
derived from an organism or synthetically therefore consolidating genetic
breeding orTherefore,
generated. GM. The moreuptakecomplex
of biofoundaries
traits in engineering processes.
engineering processes.
Figure 1. The "Design, Test, Simulate, Learn" cycle of developing a synthetic biology
Figure 1.for
pipeline The “Design, Test,
developing novelSimulate, Learn”
crop traits. cycletraits
Potential of developing
of interesta synthetic biology pipeline
can be identified from for
developing
natural novelincrop
variation croptraits. Potential
germplasm. traits of interest
Constructs can bedesigned
are carefully identifiedwith
fromthenatural variation in
appropriate
components (i.e. promoters
crop germplasm. Constructsfor aretargeted
carefullyexpression),
designed withandthe
tested using high-throughput
appropriate components (i.e.plant,
promoters
bacterial or yeast transformation systems. Crop models can estimate the impact
for targeted expression), and tested using high-throughput plant, bacterial or yeast transformation of this
transformation on crop yield and resource-use efficiency. From this we learn how to optimise
systems.
the Crop models
incorporation can estimate
of these traits andthe impact crop
enhance of thisproductivity.
transformation on crop
Traits yield and
determined to resource-use
be of
efficiency.
value Fromthrough
are carried this we for
learn how to optimise
germplasm the incorporation of these traits and enhance crop
development
productivity. Traits determined to be of value are carried through for germplasm development
Gene editing using the CRISPR-Cas9 design and easy construction of

system is one of the fastest, easiest, and components also makes gene editing a
cost-effective methods of modifying an promising alternative to traditional
organism’s genome without introducing breeding and GM approaches. Further,
foreign genetic material. The simple single-gene knockouts or single base-pair
23
- 27 -
Gene editing using the CRISPR-Cas9 system is Regulation by the relevant government authori-
one of the fastest, easiest, and cost-effective meth- ties will be required where editing techniques in-
ods of modifying an organism’s genome without corporate new genetic material.
introducing foreign genetic material. The sim-
ple design and easy construction of components
also makes gene editing a promising alternative RNA interference (RNAi) is a post-transcrip-
to traditional breeding and GM approaches. Fur- tional gene silencing (PTGS) mechanism. Gene
ther, single-gene knockouts or single base-pair silencing through RNAi has various potential ag-
mutations that can be achieved by gene editing ricultural applications, such as inducing sterility
through CRISPR-Cas9 may not require regulation or mortality in insect pests upon consumption of
in a growing number of countries (Waltz, 2017), RNAi-producing plants, modifying seed oil com-
adding to the appeal of this system. In 2019, the position, removing toxin production in edible tis-
Australian government declared that gene editing sues and in supressing fungal and viral pathogens.
techniques that do not introduce new genetic ma-
terial in plants and animals will not be regulat-
ed as Genetically Modified Organisims (GMOs).
Table 1. Summary of SynBio tools with potentially valuable applications in agriculture. Adapted
from Sargent et al., (2022)
Technology: Description:
Targeted in vivo gene silencing or altering sequences in the

promoter region to change expression or within the coding
Gene Editing Techniques
sequence to alter function. An efficient tool for site specific
editing of genes for desired outcomes.
Crucial strategy for cloning multiple genes for applications
of rewiring metabolic pathways. Examples include Golden
Modular Cloning Gate, BioBricks and Gibson cloning. Can be intertwined
with biofoundaries to select certain genetic parts for
expression in certain tissues.
The plant defence system towards viruses and hence double
stranded RNA can be utilised to target insects through
RNAi
the application of siRNAs or their expression from the
chloroplast.
Promoting inheritance of deleterious alleles (i.e. lethal or
Gene Drives
sterile alleles in insect pests).
Regulated promoters can temporally control gene
expression by activating or deactivating downstream genes
Regulated Promoters
under specific conditions, such as environmental stress or
phenological development.
- 28 -
Dr. Mohamed Negm
ICRA,
Dr. Chairman
Mohamed Negm
ICRA, Chairman
Dr. Mohamed Negm

ICRA, Chairman
Dr. Keshav R. Kranthi
Chief Scientists-ICAC
Chief Scientists-ICAC

Chief Scientist -ICAC
Dr. Jodi Shaffler “ICAC year
of researcher
odi 2022,
Shaffler “ICAC with
year
H. E. Mansoor
searcher 2022,Bek,
with
Ambassador of Uzbekistan
Mansoor Bek,
n Egypt of Uzbekistan
assador
ypt
Dr. Jodi Scheffler “ICAC Researcher of

the Year 2022", with H. E. Mansoor Bek
Ambassador of Uzbekistan in Egypt
H. E. Dr. Ibrokhim
Abdurakhmonov
Minister
H. E. of Dr.
Innovation and
Ibrokhim
Development,
Abdurakhmonov Uzbekistan
Minister
H. E. of Dr.
Innovation and
Ibrokhim
Development,
Abdurakhmonov Uzbekistan
Minister of Innovation and

Development, Uzbekistan
H. E. Dr. Ibrokhim Abdurakhmonov

Minister of Innovation and Development, Uzbekistan
Mr. Khaled Schuman

CEO, Cotton Egypt
Mr. Khaled Schuman
Association-Egypt
CEO, Cotton Egypt
Mr. Khaled Schuman
Association-Egypt
CEO, Cotton Egypt
Association-Egypt
Mr. Khaled Schuman
CEO, Cotton Egypt Association-Egypt
Eng. Mohamed Khedr
Chairman of Cotton
Arbitration
Eng. Mohamed and
Khedr Testing general
Organization-Egypt
Chairman of Cotton
Arbitration and Testing general

Eng. Mohamed Khedr
Organization-Egypt
Chairman of Cotton
Arbitration and Testing general

Organization-Egypt
Eng. Mohamed Khedr

Chairman of Cotton
Arbitration and Testing General Organization-Egypt
Soliman
esearch
Prof. Dr. Mohamed Soliman
President, Agric. Research
Center-Egypt
Prof. Dr. Mohamed Soliman

President, Agric. Research
Opening from left to right:
Center-Egypt
H. E. Mansor Bek, Ambassador
Of Uzbekistan In Egypt, Mr.
right:
Khaled Schuman, Dr. mohamed
Siloman, Dr. Keshav Kranthi. Dr.
mbassador
Khalid Abdullah, Cotton
Commissioner, Pakistan
pt, Mr.
Government and Dr. Mohamed
Negm
Dr. mohamed
v Kranthi. Dr.
h, Cotton
Pakistan
Dr. Dr.Mohamed
kater Hake,
Cotton Incorporated
USA
Opening from left to right:
H. E. Mansor Bek, Ambassador Of Uzbekistan In Egypt,
Mr. Khaled Schuman, Dr. Mohamed Siloman, Dr. Keshav Kranthi.
Dr. Khaid Abduallh, Cotton Commissioner, Pakistan Government and Dr. Mohamed Negm
rated
Dr. Jodi Shaffler
USA
Dr. Jodi Shaffler

USA
Dr. Jodi Shaffler
USA
Dr. Jodi Scheffler
USA
Dr. Kater Hake, Dr. Jodi

Shaffler, and Dr. Eric Hequet
ViceKater
Dr. President
Hake,ofDr.
Texas
Jodi Tech
Univ. Forand
Shaffler, Research
Dr. Eric Hequet
Dr.
ViceKater Hake,ofDr.
President Jodi Tech
Texas
Shaffler,
Univ. Forand Dr. Eric Hequet
Research
Vice President of Texas Tech
Univ. For Research
Dr. Kater Hake, Dr. Jodi
Scheffler, and Dr. Eric Hequet
Vice President of Texas Tech
Univ. For Research
Dr. Marcelo Paytas, Head of
INTA, Argentina

INTA, Argentina

INTA, Argentina
Dr. Marcelo Paytas

Head of INTA, Argentina
r. Ibrokhim and Dr. Mohamed
H. E. Dr. Ibrokhim and Dr. Mohamed
Negm
H. E. Dr. Ibrokhim and Dr. Mohamed Negm
Dr. Mohamed Negm, Dr. Khade

UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURAL
SCIENCES DHARWAD,
India
ohamed Negm, Dr. Khade
And Dr. C D Mayee, President, South
RSITY OF AsiaAGRICULTURAL
Biotechnology Centre
CES DHARWAD,
. C D Mayee, President, South

otechnology Centre
Dr. Mohamed Negm, Dr. B M Khadi,

University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, India And Dr. C D Mayee,
President, South Asia Biotechnology Centre
Government and Dr. Mohamed
Negm
Dr. kater Hake,

Cotton Incorporated
USA
Dr. kater Hake,

Cotton Incorporated
USA

Cotton Innovations Vol 2 Issue 8 - 221024 - 100416

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News: Uzbekistan Host the 8th Version of WCRC 2

PROCEEDINGS OF THE GENERAL BODY MEETING, INTERNATIONAL COTTON

Phosphorus stratification in Australian Cotton farming systems 5

New Insights on Why There are Differences in Micronaire in Cotton Crops 11

Are arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi an exciting new player or misunderstood hero in

Synthetic Biology: The Key to a New Era of Elite Cultivar Development? 26

Dr. Mohamed Negm, Chairman of ICRA

Dr. Keshav Kranthi Executive Director-ICRA

Dr. Eric Hequet, Vice-Chairman and treasurer-ICRA

Dr. Fiaz Ahmad, ICRA Secretariat,

Dr. Michael Bange,

Published by ICRA Secretariat, Pakistan Central Cotton Committee, Multan-Pakistan

Volume 2 Issue 8 October 2022 www.icracotton.org

PROCEEDINGS OF THE GENERAL BODY MEETING

ELECTION OF ICRA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS

International Cotton Researchers Association www.icracotton.org

The following candidates were elected by the General Body Assembly

TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR EC MEMBERS

Locations Depth Cotton field Native site % of Native site

ACRI 2 0–10 cm 191 281* 68

Wee Waa 0–15 cm 191 244 78

Merah North 0–15 cm 83 185 45

Warren 0–15 cm 106 15 711

Figure 1. Long-term changes in soil Colwell P in long-term cotton systems experiments at

Phosphorus stratification in Australian Cotton

Phosphorus stratification in Australian Cotton

Phosphorus (P) is an essential nutrient for

Variable Improvement in Predictability

Phosphorus stratification in Australian Cotton

INTERNATIONAL COTTON RESEARCHERS ASSOCIATION

Phosphorus stratification in Australian Cotton

Figure 2. The phenotypic progress of advanced non-defoliating resistant material compared to a

od hero in cotton? Authors:

Phosphorus stratification in Australian Cotton

Gene editing using the CRISPR-Cas9 design and easy construction of

Targeted in vivo gene silencing or altering sequences in the

Dr. Mohamed Negm

Dr. Keshav R. Kranthi

Dr. Keshav R. Kranthi

Dr. Jodi Scheffler “ICAC Researcher of

Minister of Innovation and

H. E. Dr. Ibrokhim Abdurakhmonov

Mr. Khaled Schuman

Arbitration and Testing general

Arbitration and Testing general

Eng. Mohamed Khedr

Prof. Dr. Mohamed Soliman

Dr. Jodi Shaffler

Dr. Kater Hake, Dr. Jodi

Dr. Marcelo Paytas, Head of

Dr. Marcelo Paytas, Head of

Dr. Marcelo Paytas

H. E. Dr. Ibrokhim and Dr. Mohamed Negm

Dr. Mohamed Negm, Dr. Khade

. C D Mayee, President, South

Dr. Mohamed Negm, Dr. B M Khadi,

Dr. kater Hake,

Dr. kater Hake,

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