Question

Among the various rust diseases of wheat, which one is most prevalent in all wheat-growing zones in India?

• A. Brown rust
• B. Yellow rust
• C. Black rust
• D. White rust

Hint:

Brown/Leaf rust (Puccinia triticina) occurs universally across all wheat zones in India; Yellow rust is restricted to cool North, Black rust to warm South/Central.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Wheat crops in India are attacked by three distinct rust species distributed across specific agro-ecological zones.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Distribution of wheat rusts in India:
1. Brown Leaf rust (Puccinia triticina recondita): Most widely distributed and prevalent across ALL wheat-growing zones in India (Northern Plains, Peninsular India, Central Zone).
2. Yellow Stripe rust (Puccinia striiformis): Prevalent in cool northern hills and North-Western Plains Zone (NWPZ).
3. Black Stem rust (Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici): Dominant in warmer Central and Peninsular India.
4. White rust (Albugo candida) attacks brassicas, not wheat.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Hence, Brown rust is the most prevalent rust across all wheat zones in India.