Effect of Seed Borne Fungi on Seed Health of Soyabean

A comprehensive study was conducted to characterize the seed-borne mycoflora associated with soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) and to evaluate their impact on seed health. Seed samples of three soybean cultivars-Palam Soya, Shivalik, and Hara Soya-were collected from field plots subjected to either fungicide treatment (tebuconazole) or left untreated at the experimental farm of CSKHPKV, Palampur. Detection and identification of seed-borne fungi were performed using both the agar plate and blotter paper methods, following ISTA protocols. A total of thirteen fungal species were isolated, with Fusarium proliferatum, Colletotrichum truncatum, and Alternaria alternate being the most prevalent across all cultivars and treatments. The agar plate method demonstrated higher sensitivity in detecting fungal contaminants compared to the blotter paper method. Pathogenicity assays revealed that Aspergillus niger significantly reduced seed germination, root length, shoot length, and seedling vigour index, indicating its high pathogenic potential. These findings highlight the critical need for regular monitoring and effective management of seed-borne mycoflora to safeguard soybean seed quality and enhance crop productivity.