Fungal Diseases of Wheat in Punjab, Pakistan: Epidemiology, Climate Interactions, and Sustainable Management Strategies

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) serves as the foundation of food security in Pakistan, with Punjab making a significant contribution to the country's overall wheat yield. However, fungal diseases are among the most serious biotic stresses to wheat farming in this area. This review synthesizes findings from approximately 40 peer-reviewed publications, with emphasis on recent literature (2010–2026), to provide an extensive account of (1) the diversity of key fungal pathogens affecting wheat in Punjab and (2) the eco-friendly and sustainable control strategies applicable under regional conditions. The principal pathogens reviewed include Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (stripe rust), Puccinia triticina (leaf rust), Fusarium graminearum (Fusarium head blight), and Aspergillus flavus (grain mold/aflatoxin). Eco-friendly management options reviewed include biological control agents (bacteria and fungi), botanical fungicides, and resistance breeding. Challenges such as fungicide resistance, pathogen evolution under climate change, and limited access to certified seed are discussed. This review identifies critical knowledge gaps and proposes a regional research agenda to underpin sustainable wheat pathology in Punjab.