Challenges and Advances in Managing of Fusarium Head Blight in Wheat: Insights from Ethiopian Agriculture

Abstract

Wheat, a vital staple crop feeding 35% of the global population, faces significant threats from plant diseases and climate change, with Fusarium Head Blight (FHB) being one of the most severe challenges. FHB, primarily caused by Fusarium graminearum, leads to substantial yield losses and mycotoxin contamination, particularly deoxynivalenol (DON) and zearalenone (ZEA), which pose serious health risks and complicate international trade. In Ethiopia, FHB prevalence can reach up to 90% in regions with high humidity and warm temperatures during wheat anthesis, severely affecting grain quality. Over 20 Fusarium species have been identified in the country, further raising concerns about mycotoxin contamination. Current management strategies include cultural practices such as crop rotation and tillage, fungicide applications, and breeding for resistance. However, these methods are not fully reliable, and integrated approaches are essential to sustainably manage FHB and mitigate resistance development. This review synthesizes existing research on FHB, focusing on its impact in Ethiopian agriculture and exploring effective management strategies to improve wheat productivity and food security.