The APS workshop for accurate identification of vegetable diseases in Kazakhstan was a huge success
The APS workshop for accurate identification of vegetable diseases in Kazakhstan was a huge success. The four-day workshop held from September 2nd to 5th, 2024 at the Kazakh National Agrarian Research University (KazNARU) in Almaty trained graduate students, faculty, and university specialists on the diagnostic process. Using lectures, laboratory training, and field excursions participants learned many aspects of disease diagnosis. Lectures focused on the theory and science of diseases diagnosis and control strategies. Laboratory methods covered included culturing fungi and bacteria from plant tissues, preservation of fungi, proper use and care of the microscope, field identification of fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases, and Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
The workshop focused on identification of diseases of regional importance, with the goal of improving connections between growers and university specialists. Vegetable growers in Kazakhstan face numerous challenges and plant diseases can result in significant losses. Participants received hands on training with Phytophthroa capsici, Alternaria alternata, Fusarium spp. and other pathogens that are annually observed in the region. Field trips to Shelek and Kainar to discuss sampling techniques, nematodes, viral diseases, and identification of diseases in the field enhanced the practical aspect of the training. Laboratory exercises focused on microscopy, sample preparation, fungal culturing, incubation, and inoculation techniques.
Participants had the opportunity to share their own experiences with diagnostics and lab methods. The majority of the workshop focused on hands-on training in the laboratory and field visits to improve in visual identification of diseased plants. Participants increased their knowledge of microscopy, inoculation techniques, and disease identification, and completed the course excited for additional opportunities in diagnostics.
