Biotic Stress Tolerance and Implications for Breeding and Disease Management of Major Foliar Diseases of Durum Wheat (Triticum durum Desf.) in Tunisia

Abstract

Durum wheat (Triticum durum Desf.) is a strategic cereal crop in Tunisia, where its productivity is strongly constrained by biotic stresses, particularly foliar fungal diseases. This review focuses exclusively on the three most widespread and economically important foliar diseases affecting durum wheat in Tunisia: septoria tritici blotch, rust diseases (stripe rust and leaf rust), and tan spot. The epidemiology of these diseases, their estimated yield losses, and their interaction with agronomic practices and climatic conditions are synthesized. Special emphasis is placed on host tolerance and resistance as sustainable management strategies, and the implications for breeding programs and integrated disease management are discussed.