GENOME-WIDE ASSOCIATION TO IDENTIFY RESISTANCE TO PHYTOPHTHORA CAPSICI ROOT ROT IN LANDRACE CHILE PEPPERS

The overarching societal aim for this project is to enhance plant health against pathogens to improve agricultural climate adaptation. The specific project goal is to discover genetic variation in pepper (Capsicum annuum) in its center of originthat can help it withstand the devastating pathogen, Phytophthora capsici. To accomplish this project goal, two specific objectives will be completed:1: Quantify phenotypic variation in P. capsici resistance among landrace peppers.2: Identify genetic variation associated with P. capsici resistance.Completion of these objectives will yield greater knowledge and genetic resources for enhancing disease resistance in an important crop during a time of climate change.