RNA biopesticides for next generation protection of crops and native plants. Plant disease control relies heavily on chemical pesticides, but these chemicals produce toxic run-off and residues in food

Description

RNA biopesticides for next generation protection of crops and native plants. Plant disease control relies heavily on chemical pesticides, but these chemicals produce toxic run-off and residues in food, and are harmful to humans and the environment. This project aims to develop RNA biopesticides as a novel control for the devastating plant diseases myrtle rust and Phytophthora root rot. The expected outcome is an innovative, safe and environmentally sustainable alternative to chemical fungicides for controlling these and other diseases. This should provide significant benefits to the $90B Australian agriculture industry by increasing productivity and sustainability, to consumers and the environment by reducing chemical usage, and to Australia’s rich biodiversity by protecting native endangered plants from disease.. Scheme: Mid-Career Industry Fellowships. Field: 3008 - Horticultural Production. Lead: Dr Anne Sawyer