The Department of Plant Protection, College of Agriculture, University of Kerbala, held the defense of the Master’s thesis by student Taima Faiq Saeed Al-Naemi, under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Adnan Abdul-Jalil Lahoof, entitled:
“Evaluation of the Efficiency of Certain Okra Genotypes in Resistance to Complex Infections by Some Viral Pathogens and Their Insect Vectors, and the Investigation of Related Genes.”
The thesis presented notable applied scientific achievements. Molecular diagnosis was performed using next-generation sequencing (NGS) and RNA-Seq techniques, revealing for the first time in Iraq two viruses infecting okra: Okra mild mottle virus and Okra enation leaf curl virus, in addition to two associated viral satellites, BYVMB and OELCB. The study also provided precise genetic characterization of insect vectors and the identification of their biotypes.
Eight okra genotypes were evaluated under field infection conditions in a naturally infested plastic house with aphids (Aphis gossypii) and whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci). Results showed clear differences in the severity of infection, despite reaching 100% incidence across all genotypes. The genotype “Al-Obeir” displayed the lowest severity of infection, even under high vector pressure, confirming effective viral tolerance mechanisms compared to the highly susceptible genotype “Line 3.”
Further analyses revealed increased activity of defense enzymes (Peroxidase, Polyphenol Oxidase, PAL), along with higher levels of micronutrients (N, Cu, Fe, Mo) in the genotype “Al-Obeir.” This genotype also exhibited chlorophyll concentrations four times higher than others and maintained better photosynthetic efficiency during infection.
The thesis recommends adopting the “Al-Obeir” genotype as a promising genetic source in okra breeding programs and incorporating physiological, enzymatic, and molecular markers into selection processes. It also calls for the broader application of NGS technology to monitor complex viral infections and strengthen integrated pest management programs.
