OSR with turnip yellows virus resistance tipped for Recommended List

Oilseed rape variety Amalie is being reconsidered for the HGCA Recommended List, because of its valuable resistance against turnip yellows virus (TuYV).

Agronomists predicted an increased virus threat after the loss of neonicotinoid seed treatments in December 2013.

This is because the virus is spread by aphids, the key one being the peach potato aphid (Myzus persicae).

“About 74% of Myzus persicae are infected with the virus and it is hosted by many species of crop as well as weeds,” said Agrii seed technical manager David Leaper at a press briefing at North Farm, Wiltshire.