Controlling Fusarium Head Blight in Wheat: Quantifying Fusarium Complex Species, Risk Factors, and Control Methods

This study addresses Fusarium head blight, a wheat disease caused by a complex of Fusarium and Microdochium fungi with varying epidemiology and toxin production. It describes the EcoFusa research project, which applies molecular quantification tools to measure the main species across French wheat fields. The project investigates the relationships among these pathogens, deoxynivalenol mycotoxin levels, agronomic practices, and weather. It develops three thematic areas: mapping Fusarium complex species distribution and associated risk factors; assessing non-fungicidal control alternatives; and optimizing fungicide use strategies. Results aim to support reduced pesticide use while maintaining wheat productivity and grain safety standards under European regulations.