Mildew Mania - 2018 Schools Information Booklet
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Mildew Mania
Schools Information Booklet
2018
A citizen science project where schools are helping
Curtin scientists to assist
Western Australia’s agricultural industry
Dear Registered Educator,
Thank you so much for supporting Mildew Mania, a project which seeks to combine the
Australian Curriculum Science learning objectives with current research, in order to help
Australian farmers.
This ongoing state-wide experiment began in 2011. Being the first of its kind in Western
Australia, we hope to gain results that will enable our Curtin scientists to make some
break-through discoveries in regard to the distribution of powdery mildew across the
state. In recent years, this project has enabled our scientists to map out just some of the
barley powdery mildew across WA, this year we are extending the program to include
wheat as well . We need more data and samples from across the state to understand more
about powdery mildew disease in barley and wheat crops, including those from your
school’s location!
We have made the experiment as simple and easy as possible so that all ages and year
levels can be involved in this project.
This booklet is part of your Starter Pack which also includes:
• Welcome letter
• Consent Form with reply paid self-addressed envelope
• Information Sheet for your records
• A seed pack that includes Baudin barley, 3 other varieties of barley (Buloke,
Hindmarsh and Oxford), and Wyalkatchem Wheat
• Sampling Equipment (agar vials, swabs, tweezers, gloves and sticky labels)
• A return addressed package including: polystyrene esky, cold pack, tape and return
stickers & postage box
• GRDC Fact Sheet
• Curtin STEM Outreach Information Sheet
There are also various online resources available at http://mildewmania.com.au. Please
keep an eye on the website as more resources will be added over the course of your
experiment.
Please note that this booklet contains much more information than you are likely to
require, but we thought it best to give you as much information as possible so you can
adapt it for your needs.
Once again – thank you! Without you and your school’s help we would not be able to
access this important science information.
Kind regards,
The Mildew Mania Team
Mildew Mania 2018 1
Curtin Curious Schools
With so many schools already involved in the Curtin
Curious Schools Program, why not get involved too?
By joining up to our email list you will become one of
hundreds of teachers across WA that receive updated
information about Curtin STEM Outreach activities for
students and schools, offers and other relevant news.
Sign up for FREE today!
To register visit:
Curtincuriousscience.eventbrite.com
Curtin STEM Outreach
The Faculty of Science and Engineering is committed to
providing opportunities for future scientists and engineers
as well as their educators to learn new skills, meet like-
minded people and spark their excitement for science and
engineering.
With workshops, camps, excursions, incursions and
competitions for students and teachers, the Outreach
program aims to get more young people interested in
science and engineering.
To find out more about Curtin STEM Outreach go to
scieng.curtin.edu.au/outreach/
2 Mildew Mania 2018
Meet the Team
Dr Nola D’Souza
With a 1st class honours degree in Biological Sciences from
Murdoch University in Perth, Nola worked for several
environmental and government departments in the fields of
microbiology, environmental science and plant pathology.
She returned to Murdoch to complete a PhD, retraining in the
field of molecular plant pathology and biotechnology.
She currently works as the Senior Research Assistant for the
Barley Powdery Mildew Program at Curtin University’s Centre
for Crop and Disease Management. She enjoys working in
plant pathology and biotechnology because it’s amazing to
see how pathogens invade a plant and to discover how those plants defend themselves.
Plus anything viewed under a microscope is fascinating! Nola is excited to be involved
in Mildew Mania as it’s a great way to share her love of science and get more children
involved as future researchers.
Dr Simon Ellwood
Simon was trained in Biochemistry at Imperial College,
London and gained a PhD in plant molecular biology
at the University of East Anglia. Since then he has been
involved in several research projects involving plant
fungal diseases.
Simon is Program Leader for the Powdery Mildew of
Barley Program at Curtin University’s Centre for Crop
and Disease Management. The Centre is co-funded by
GRDC and will continue to carry out Curtin’s high-impact
research into grains that will make a real difference to the
Australian grains industry. The Powdery Mildew of Barley
Program seeks to find durable barley genetic resistance
to this disease, which is the most economically important
barley disease in Western Australia.
Professor Richard Oliver
Richard was trained in biochemistry at the University of
Bristol, UK from 1976 and obtained a PhD in 1982. During his
postdoctoral fellowship at the renowned Carlsberg Laboratory,
Denmark he learnt molecular biology techniques.
Since then, he has travelled the world, researching and
teaching in many universities.
In 1996 Richard was invited to join Carlsberg Laboratory as
the Professor of Physiology where, among other things, he
initiated large-scale genomics of powdery mildew. At the top
of this field, he has established widely used technologies for
molecular analysis of fungal pathogens and pioneered the use
of Arabidopsis to study fungal disease resistance.
At Curtin, Richard is the Chief Scientific Officer for the Centre for Crop and Disease
Management. He leads the design of several national fungicide and genetic disease
resistance projects.
Mildew Mania 2018 3
Lori Patterson
Lori works as an Administration Officer in the Faculty of
Science and Engineering. Prior to this, she was a Project
Officer in the Department of Spatial Sciences for almost 20
years where one of her roles involved the organisation of
school workshops. She is looking forward to being involved
with Mildew Mania in 2018 as she enjoys organising and
communicating with people, and thought the idea of
working with a practical and valuable science project which
benefits students, teachers and researchers alike, was too
good not to take on.
Felmona Tegegn
Felmona works in the Faculty of Science and Engineering
as an Administration Assistant. It is his first position since
graduating from Edith Cowan University with a degree in
Human Resources. He too is looking forward to Mildew
Mania 2018 as it is a wonderful opportunity to put his
communication and organisational skills into action.
4 Mildew Mania 2018
Table of Contents
1. PURPOSE AND AIMS 6
a. Purpose of Curtin research and background to project 6
b. Aims of Mildew Mania experiment 7
2. BACKGROUND INFORMATION 8
a. Information on barley 8
b. Information on wheat 9
c. Information on powdery mildew and its lifecycle 9
d. Genetics associated with powdery mildew and the role
of fungicides in the control of powdery mildew 11
3. ACTIVITY INSTRUCTIONS 12
a. Equipment list 12
b. Timeline for Mildew Mania 2018 13
c. Experiment flow chart 14
d. Where to keep your plants 15
e. Planting instructions 15
f. Powdery mildew symptoms 16
g. Sampling instructions 17
h. Sending in samples 18
i. Photographic evidence 19
j. Destroying plants 19
k. Results 19
4. SAFETY 20
5. CURRICULUM LINKS AND IDEAS FOR EXTENSION/VARIATION 21
a. Curriculum links – Science 22
b. Extension activities 28
c. Variations to the core experiment 29
6. FURTHER RESOURCES 30
7. APPENDIX 31
a. Glossary 31
b. Contact details for project staff and scientists 33
c. Experiment Record Sheet 34
d. Curtin science disciplines and course information 35
Mildew Mania 2018 5
1. PURPOSE AND AIMS 1a. Purpose of Curtin research and background to project Barley is Australia’s second largest grain crop, which is grown for animal feed, human consumption and malting. The quality of grain at harvest can determine what it will be used for. Only a few varieties are suitable for malting and these generally yield less than food or feed varieties. However, if a malt variety produces low quality grain it can only be sold for feed. Malting grain returns larger profits than feed – so producers would rather sell their barley for malting. There are many different varieties (cultivars) of barley. These include – Baudin, Buloke, Gairdner, Lockyer, Yagan and many more. Baudin (pronounced Bo- dan) is one common malting cultivar and has a reputation as a high quality malting barley. However, it is highly susceptible to a number of diseases. Powdery mildew a common barley disease is caused by a fungus called Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei (often shortened to Bgh). This is the major disease of barley in WA, particularly in wetter areas. A severe infection of powdery mildew (or Bgh) reduces yield and can cause grain to be downgraded to feed. The disease has reached epidemic proportions in previous years and is estimated to result in around $100 million of loss annually in WA. The disease is easily recognised by the presence of whitish powdery pustules on above ground parts of the plant (i.e. stems and leaves). The Bgh fungi reproduce by releasing spores into the air. These spores can be carried long distances by the wind. Different varieties of barley vary in their susceptibility to Bgh infection. Some varieties of barley such as Yagan have effective resistance genes that protect them from infection. The common malting variety Baudin, however, is very susceptible to the disease and growers must use fungicides to control Bgh infection. We have been running this Mildew Mania experiment over several years in order to track the spread of this disease throughout varieties of barley. In previous years the project solely focused on barley powdery mildew, however this year we will continue to research powdery mildew in wheat crops. Wheat podery mildew is caused by Blumeria graminis f.sp. tritici (often shortened to Bgt). While wheat powdery mildew Bgt and barley powdery mildew (Bgh) are not caused by exactly the same fungus, they are closely related and similar in many aspects. During the late 1900’s – early 2000’s we saw limited Bgt in WA, however a rainy 2015 and ideal conditions resulted in greater widespread damage from Bgt. The purpose of this year’s Mildew Mania is to help scientists find out more about the distrubution of both barley and wheat powdery mildew and the varieties that are susceptible to the disease. 6 Mildew Mania 2018
1b. Aims of Mildew Mania experiment
2018 will be the eighth year of the Mildew Mania experiment. In the first few years of the
project we asked schools to grow a small number of Baudin plants at their school with
Baudin acting as a susceptible bait variety for any mildew near them. From this we could
map where Bgh is present in WA, and where in WA Bgh has the mutated gene, resulting
in fungicide resistance. In 2014 we extended the experiment to include different varieties
of barley, and also Baudin seed that has been “pretreated” with the fungicide Jockey. Only
three years on and we are already finding that the treatment is no longer as effective;
evidently this is a rapidly changing fungi.
This year the project will continue to include a wheat sample – Wyalkatchem.
Wyalkatchem is very susceptible to Bgt, therefore it is the ideal wheat variety for mapping
Bgt throughout Western Australia. Schools are now asked to plant their untreated Baudin
barley and Wyalkatchem wheat first, and then three weeks later, plant the other varieties
of barley. This means that if you manage to attract Bgh on your very susceptible Baudin
bait plants, you can then test if this particular race of Bgh can infect the other varieties of
barley.
The scientific aims of Mildew Mania 2018 are to:
1. Map the areas in WA where Bgh is present
2. Map the areas in WA where Bgt is present
3. Find out which varieties of barley are resistant to Bgt
This map indicates
schools that have
participated in Mildew
Mania across Western
Australia.
Mildew Mania 2018 7
2. BACKGROUND INFORMATION
2a. Information on barley
There are many different varieties (cultivars) of barley, 21 of which are available to grow in
Western Australia.
Varieties of barley grown in WA and their use
Malting Baudin, Buloke, Flinders, Gairdner, Hamelin, Schooner, Stirling, Vlamingh
Food Hindmarsh
Barque, Capstan, Dash, Fleet, Hannan, Lockeyer, Maritime, Molloy, Mundah,
Feed Oxford, Roe, Yagan, Yarra
Baudin was registered as a malting barley in 2002. Since
its release Baudin has become much sought after by the
international brewing trade, building a reputation as
a high quality malting barley. Whilst Baudin has been
widely adopted by growers with favourable results,
issues of disease management are impacting on its
future production. Baudin is highly susceptible to a
number of foliar diseases that affect barley in Western
Australia. The threat of disease is greatest in Baudin
crops grown in medium to high rainfall areas, as most
diseases require moisture to reproduce and spread. We
have selected Baudin for this study because it is highly
susceptible to barley powdery mildew, so if there are any
Bgh spores in the air around your school they are likely to infect
the Baudin plants you are growing.
We have also included another malting variety of barley in this experiment –
Buloke. Buloke is a malting barley, and it was accredited in 2008. This accreditation
process occurs when a new variety of barley bred in Australia undergoes a series
of evaluations, and has to meet minimum standards set out by Barley Australia
(www.barleyaustralia.com.au). The third variety of barley included is Hindmarsh – a
food variety that is exported to China and Japan to make an alcoholic drink called
Shochu. Hindmarsh produces a high yield of grain and has good resistance to barley
powdery mildew.
Of the total area of land in WA that is planted with barley each year, up to 20%
is sown with feed varieties. Oxford is one of the many varieties of barley grown
specifically for feed in WA and untill recently (2015) it was considered ‘resistant’ to
Bgh infections. It was its resistance and the ability of the crop to mature early that
made it a popular choice to grow in areas with high rainfall. Unfortunately in 2016
powdery milew was observed and confirmed in some Oxford plants, thus Oxford
is now considered ‘moderately susceptible’ to the disease. To assist scientists to
understand the Oxford resistance, we are asking you to test whether the particular
race of Bgh that may have infected your Baudin plants, can also infect Oxford.
8 Mildew Mania 20182b. Information on wheat
Wheat is a cereal crop grown throughout
Australia which is usually milled down to
produce flour for cakes, breads, biscuits,
noodles, pasta, cerals and confectionary.
Wheat is high in carbohydrates and
potassium but low in fat and sodium.
Wheat contains gluten.
In the summer of 2016/17, Australia
produced record amounts, most of which
was grown in Western Australia! Every year
at least 80% of WA’s wheat is exported to
Asia and the Middle East, earning more
than $2 billion for the WA economy.
Indonesia alone is our largest export
market, they buy 2.3 million tonnes a year!
Did you know?
Western Australia is the major supplier of wheat for Japanese white salted
udon noodles.
There are at least 40 wheat varieties that can be grown in WA. The most common varieties
of wheat grown in WA are: Mace, Calingiri, Wyalkatchem, Yitpi, Magenta, Corack, Colbra
and Stiletto. However, new varieties are continuously released. Recently released varieties
include: Bremer, Hydra, Zen, and Supreme.
This year you will be planting Wyalkatchem wheat. Released in 2001, it is an Australian
Premium White Wheat which consists of at least 10% protien and is often used to make
asian noodles, Middle Eastern and Indian breads. It is also highly susceptible to powdery
mildew making it perfect for the project of mapping the strains of wheat powdery mildew
throughout WA.
2c. Information on powdery mildew and its lifecycle
Barley powdery mildew is caused by a fungus called Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei (Bgh).
Wheat powdery mildew is caused by a fungus called Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici (Bgt).
Powdery mildew is present around the world in a large number of strains
or races. Each race varies slightly in its genetics and is
characterised by whether it can or cannot infect barley or
wheat varieties with different resistance genes.
Bgh is a disease that thrives on barley cultivar Baudin,
particularly in high rainfall areas (it is very prominent
in Southern WA). Although Bgt is less common than
Bgh, if left untreated both can still significantly
damage crops resulting in decreased yields and crop
quality.
Mildew Mania 2018 9Powdery mildew prefers wet, cool conditions between 15-25 degrees celcius. The disease caused by Bgh/Bgt is easily recognised by the presence of white to greyish powdery masses on above ground parts of the plant such as stems, leaves and grain. Arranged into small groups (referred to as pustules), each pustule constitutes a single colony. The infection cycle of Bgh/Bgt commences with the landing of a single spore (called a conidium, plural conidia) on susceptible barley host plant. The conidium then progresses through a series of developmental stages until it can establish itself and draw nutrients from the host to asexually reproduce conidia. The conidia are formed in elongated chains arising from the infection site and these chains result in the appearance of fluffy pustules. Each of the thousands of conidia in each Bgh/Bgt pustule is capable of being blown to other susceptible plants and so carrying the infection. The lifecycle of Bgh/Bgt has two interconnecting cycles. It undergoes both asexual and sexual reproduction. Asexual reproduction occurs multiple times in a season and involves successive divisions producing the chains of conidia genetically identical to the parent conidium. Cycles of sexual reproduction only occur once a season and result in the production of offspring with a different genetic make-up to the parents. This divergent mating system has considerable effect on the survival and adaptation capability of Bgh/Bgt. While asexual reproduction is the quickest means of population growth, sexual reproduction allows the pathogen to adapt to various environmental pressures. 10 Mildew Mania 2018
Powdery mildew is an obligate biotrophic pathogen. This means it can only survive
on living tissue, as this is where it draws it nutrients. It can only grow on barley and
wheat. It is not a danger to humans, animals or other plant species. A severe infection
can be detrimental on the growth of the plant and ultimately reduce grain quality
and yield. The depletion of plant nutrients results in chlorosis (reduced levels of
chlorophyll), so infected crops may appear yellow from a distance.
2d. Genetics associated with powdery mildew and the
role of fungicides in the control of powdery mildew
There are various mechanisms that can be employed to manage Bgh/Bgt infection. These
include the use of resistant cultivars and the application of fungicides.
Presently in WA there is a lack of registered malting
barley varieties genetically resistant to powdery mildew
and hence growers are forced to use fungicides. By
definition a fungicide is a chemical or biological agent
that can be used to kill or inhibit fungi and/or fungal
spores. herbicides kill plants
There are many classes of fungicides, grouped on their
mechanism of fungal inhibition or mode of action. pesticides kill animals
Growers in each state in Australia can legally only use a
fungicide that is registered for use on a particular crop. fungicides kill fungi
Currently the majority of fungicides registered for use on
barley powdery mildew belong to the triazole class.
Over time, more and more farmers noted the lack of
efficiency of some fungicidal treatments on barley
powdery mildew effected crops. Scientists examined
the DNA sequences of the Bgh fungus genes collected from infected crops. They found
differences between the DNA of fungi that are resistant to fungicides versus fungi that are
still susceptible. This suggests that over time fungicides have caused genetic mutations
within genes which has resulted in resistance to some of the chemical treatments.
Currently within WA, there are no fungicide resistant races of Bgt, therefore fungicides are
the best defense against wheat powdery mildew. Fungicide resistance can arise from the
excessive and repeated use of chemicals over an extended period of time. To keep the
disease under control and to help prevent fungicide resistance forming, farmers have been
advised to:
• apply fungicide at the recommended dosages (no more);
• alternate fungicide sprays so that different modes of action are being deployed;
• apply fungicides as soon as the disease is noted, to prevent widespread infection;
• rotate the crops grown with non-hosting crops so the disease cannot be passed on.
Farmers must be careful with their use of fungicides becasue it is very easy for fungicide
resistant races of Bgt to form via mutations (as demonstrated by Bgh) and it may be
sooner rather than later! East coast states are now noting races of Bht that are beginning
to mutate and will eventually become resistant to commonly used fungicides. Once these
strains develop they can readily spread to WA and put our wheat crops at risk.
Mildew Mania 2018 113. ACTIVITY INSTRUCTIONS
3a. Equipment list
Curtin will provide you with the following:
Packs of seed
• Baudin Barley
• Three other barley varieties
◦◦ Buloke
◦◦ Hindmarsh
◦◦ Oxford
• Wyalkatchem Wheat
Sampling equipment
• Sample tubes containing agar gel
• Testing swabs
• Tweezers/forceps to collect samples and place in tubes
• Sticky labels for sample tubes of agar
• Gloves
Return kit which will include:
• 1 large postage box that can be reused to return samples
• 1 polystyrene esky
• 1 ice pack
• 1 plastic ziplock bag
• 1 priority shipment sticker
• 1 return address sticker
You will need to source the following:
• Planting pots (at least 10 pots) – size of pots 15cm to 20cm in diameter
• Seed mix/potting mix – a good quality seed mix is perfect
• Granular fertiliser
• Liquid fertiliser
• Mixing stick or trowel
• Rubber gloves
• Water
• Scissors
• Bucket or watering can
• Digital camera/mobile phone with camera
• ~$16 for express return postage
12 Mildew Mania 20183b. Timeline for Mildew Mania 2018
Time Action
May/June Receive experiment pack
Plant Baudin barley and Wyalkatchem
June wheat seeds
Three weeks after initial planting -
June/July sow other varieties of Barley (Buloke,
Hindmarsh, Oxford)
Allow plants to grow
Regularly inspect for Bgh/Bgt
infection (at least twice a week)
June to August
Take photos and samples, complete
Experiment Record sheet and send to
Curtin
August to October Samples tested in CCDM labs
October/November Results available on website
Receive end of project newsletter and
November certificate of participation
Mildew Mania 2018 133c. Experiment flow chart
Month Action
May/June Receive experiment pack
June Plant Baudin barley and
Wyalkatchem wheat seeds
3 weeks later
June/July
Sow other varieties of barley
Allow plants to grow for 5 weeks
June to August and regularly inspect for infection
(at least twice a week)
Signs of Bgh/Bgt infection?
Yes No
Sample and photograph Complete Experiment
all infected plants, Record sheet and email to
complete Experiment Curtin
Record Sheet and mail
immediately to Curtin
14 Mildew Mania 20183d. Where to keep your plants
• Outdoors (if there are any spores in the air, we need to ‘catch’ the mildew as it floats
past).
• An area with little or no wind (strong winds can be damaging).
• Humidity is useful.
• Plants should not get too hot (above 28 degrees Celsius) as this will kill the mildew.
• Place pots off the ground to protect barley plants from insects, rodents and other
animals.
• Store plants in an area where they cannot be tampered with and labelled with a sign
so they are not accidentally thrown away (it has happened!).
• Away from potential vandals (including birds like ravens/crows or over enthusiastic
school gardeners).
3e. Planting instructions
1. The best time to plant your seeds is June to
July.
2. Select a suitable location to grow
your barley and wheat (see above
recommendations). A sprinkler system is
useful as it removes the need to water the
plants often (especially over the school
holidays!).
3. Check there are clear drain holes in the
pots. As a minimum your experiment
should have two pots per variety.
4. Put on the pair of rubber gloves to handle
seed mix and fertiliser.
5. Add seed mix to your pots until they are ¾
full. Sprinkle around half a teaspoon of granular
fertiliser (optional) into each pot and combine with
seed mix. Use the remaining seed mix to fill the pot to the top.
6. Sow 10 seeds approximately 5cm below the surface of the soil and about 1cm from
the pot edge.
7. Gently water the pots until they are saturated.
8. Once planted, the barley and wheat will need watering on every second day or so.
You should be able to leave the plants without water over weekends.
9. You can give the plants liquid fertiliser every three weeks. Use a bucket or watering
can to dilute the concentrate.
10. Your watering regime should be adjusted according to the weather. As a guide, the
first 2cm of the topsoil should always be moist, but not saturated. If there is a very
hot spell you may need to water every day. Conversely if your plants receive water
from rain, you can skip a day.
11. Germination should be visible within four to six days.
12. If less than five seedlings grow in your pot – use the extra seeds to sow in gaps
where the previous seeds didn’t germinate.
Mildew Mania 2018 15Important pointers!
• Place the pots of the Buloke, Hindmarsh and Oxford close to the Baudin. This will
ensure that any Bgh you have managed to catch on your bait plants will spread
on the wind current to the new pots.
• Plants are most susceptible in the first four weeks of growth and they should be
monitored at least twice a week for infection.
• Powdery mildew appears as fluffy pustules and can range in colour from white to
brown to grey. For more information on what to look for see the photos provided.
• The best thing to do if you suspect a mildew infection is to take some close-up
photographs and to email them to Curtin University (l.patterson@curtin.edu.au).
• Follow the experiment flow chart so you know if/when you need to take samples.
• Please note that NOT finding powdery mildew on your plants is just as important
in this experiment as finding it.
3f. Powdery mildew symptoms
Powdery mildew may
first be observed as
small greyish patches
of fluffy fungal growth
(mycelium) on the upper
surface of the lower
leaves. These spots
resemble small cushions
of white powder. Leaf
tissue on the opposite
side of an infected leaf
turns pale green to
yellow.
The fungus only infects
the epidermal layer and
can be easily scraped
off with a fingernail. Infections can also occur on the leaf sheaths and ears. Leaves remain
green and active for some time following infection, then gradually become chlorotic (lose
colour and turn yellow) and die off.
As the disease progresses, the mycelium (see glossary) often becomes dotted with minute
black points (cleistothecia), which are the sexual fruiting bodies of the fungus.
16 Mildew Mania 20183g. Sampling instructions
We would like samples collected in two different ways:
A. Using the sample tubes that contains a nutrient gel called agar.
B. Using the specimen swabs.
Before taking any samples please soak and put your supplied ice pack in the freezer for
at least two days.
Bgh/Bgt only survives on live plant tissue. It will not survive long in the agar vials – so
as soon as you have samples please send the specimens off in the esky by express
postage.
Samples will die if sent in mail over the weekend! Please post on a Monday or Tuesday.
All of these materials have been supplied to you in your kit.
Sampling method A – Leaf sample tube with agar gel (see video mildewmania.com.au):
1. Take one or two close-up digital photos of an infected leaf – email to
l.patterson@curtin.edu.au.
2. Using the tweezers provided hold the infected leaf and cut from the plant.
3. Use scissors to cut a segment of the leaf around 7cm in length containing one or
more pustules (see diagram or visit website for better images).
4. Place this infected section into the tube. Ensure one cut leaf end is pushed
approximately 1cm into the agar gel. This will keep the leaf moist and alive while
in the post. It is important that the pustule (spot of infection) on the leaf is NOT
inserted into the agar.
5. Screw the cap on tightly for shipping. We have made air holes in the lid.
6. If possible, to avoid cross contamination, rinse tweezers with water in between
taking different samples.
7. Write the following on a sticky label and place on the outside of tube:
A. Date of sample,
B. Plant variety (Baudin, Buloke, Hindmarsh, Oxford or Wyalkatchem Wheat),
C. School’s name,
D. Teacher’s name.
Mildew Mania 2018 17Sampling method B – sampling using specimen
swabs (see video mildewmania.com.au):
1. Remove the swab from the packet and run
the tip of the swab over infected leaf tissue.
Look to see if the swab appears dirty, this is
the conidia.
2. You can rub the swab over several leaves if
you need to collect more conidia.
3. Insert the swab back into the container.
4. Write the following on the outside label:
A. Date of sample,
B. Plant variety (Baudin, Buloke,
Hindmarsh, Oxford or Wyalkatchem
wheat),
C. School’s name,
D. Teacher’s name.
3h. Sending in samples
IMPORTANT –Bgh/Bgt will not last long in the agar vials – it only survives on live plant tissue.
Please send the specimens off as soon as you have sampled. If possible post on a Monday
or Tuesday to ensure that samples are not in the post over the weekend. If you can’t post
straight away, you may be able to extend the life of your Bgh/Bgt by storing the vial in a
fridge for a day or so before transport.
1. Before taking any samples, soak your ice pack in water (for 2 to 3 minutes) and then
place your ice pack in the freezer for at least two days.
2. Place the frozen ice pack at the bottom of the polystyrene esky. Put all of the agar vials
containing samples on top of the cold pack. Pack with scrap paper or newspaper if the
tubes are too loose. Tape the esky lid shut.
3. Used specimen swabs should be placed into the supplied plastic ziplock bag.
4. Complete all details on the Experiment Record sheet (Appendix 7c –
don’t forget to keep a copy for your records).
5. Reuse the postage box that your starter pack came
in. Add the return address sticker and ‘priority shipment’
sticker to the front of the box. Inside the box place the
taped polystyrene esky, the plastic ziplock bag full of
specimen swabs and the completed Experiment Record
sheet. If possible use old newspaper or paper to cushion
the contents of the box before sealing the box closed
ready for posting.
6. Once you have sent the samples to Curtin
(see postal address in 7b. Contact details for project staff
and scientists), destroy the plants to avoid spreading the
infection. You can do this by placing them in a closed compost
heap or domestic bin.
7. If you didn’t see any Bgh/Bgt infection on your plants, please
still complete the Experiment Record Sheet and email to Curtin. This will help us track the
movement of the disease.
18 Mildew Mania 20183i. Photographic evidence
1. Please take one or two photos of any pustules or infections on your plants. Label the
photo files with:
A. Date of photo,
B. Plant variety (Baudin, Buloke, Hindmarsh, Oxford or Wyalkatchem),
C. School’s name.
2. Please also include some pictures of the location where you grew your plants.
3. Forward these photos along with your school and teacher’s
name to: l.patterson@curtin.edu.au.
3j. Destroying plants
1. To kill your plants you can do the following (both of
these methods are effective):
A. Remove from pot and put plants in a closed
compost bin.
B. Remove from pot and put plants in a plastic bag and
place in a domestic bin.
2. Soil can be disposed of by placing in school garden beds.
3. Pots can be rinsed and stored for any future projects.
3k. Results
1. We will place your results online so you can compare your experiment results with
others.
2. At the end of the year a newsletter will be emailed to all participating schools
containing the results of the 2018 experiment.
Mildew Mania 2018 194. SAFETY
If treated correctly, all the materials used in this experiment are benign.
• Barley and wheat are grains and a food source and pose no risk to humans.
• Fertiliser – should be treated with care, should not be consumed and hands should
be washed after contact.
• Agar gel (located in sample tubes) – a growing medium for bacteria and fungus. It is
innocuous and safe.
• Potting mix/soil – follow the instructions on package to avoid exposure to
Legionnaires Disease – a form of pneumonia
(caused by bacteria that may be present
in potting mix or soil). For more
information visit here:
http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/
legionnaires/Pages/default.aspx
Unless you have a compromised
immune system, it is unlikely you will
contract this disease from potting
mix. But if required – guidelines are:
33 wear gloves;
33 wear a mask when opening
potting mix bags or using the
mix;
33 wash your hands after gardening;
33 don’t leave potting mix bags in the
sun, or in a hot car;
33 perforate potting mix bags to reduce
pressure caused by heat;
33 hose material down gently to settle any dust;
33 avoid handling the mix while smoking, or if you are breathing heavily from
strenuous activity; and
33 avoid disturbing dust when handling dried-out pot plants – water down first.
20 Mildew Mania 20185. CURRICULUM LINKS AND
IDEAS FOR EXTENSION/VARIATION
As well as having scientific aims, the Mildew Mania project also aims to engage school
students with agricultural science and scientific research. Through participating in Mildew
Mania students can increase their understanding about science and how it is applied
by scientists to solve real-life problems. Gaining hands-on experience, contributing to
current scientific research and fostering improved science inquiry skills are other postive
outcomes from participating in this program. This project supports to the Australian
Curriculum (Science) at all year levels.
In the following pages we have highlighted relevant sections in the ACARA Scope and
Sequence for Science where the Mildew Mania experiment can be integrated. This is
followed by ideas on how you could extend or vary the core experiment.
It is also worth noting that the Mildew Mania project, and extension/variations to it, can
also be linked to the ACARA Scope and Sequence for Mathematics and Technologies:
Mathematics
(http://www.australiancurriculum.edu.au/mathematics/curriculum/f-10?layout=1)
Foundation ACMSP011, ACMMG006, ACMMG007, ACMMG008
Year 1 ACMSP262, ACMSP263, ACMMG019, ACMMG021
Year 2 ACMSP048, ACMSP049, ACMSP050, ACMMG037, ACMMG040
Year 3 ACMSP068, ACMSP069, ACMSP070, ACMMG061
Year 4 ACMMG095, ACMMG096, ACMMG097, ACMMG084
Year 5 ACMSP118, ACMSP119, ACMSP120, ACMMG108
Year 6 ACMSP147, ACMSP148
Year 7 ACMNA180
Mildew Mania 2018 21Design and Technologies
(http://www.australiancurriculum.edu.au/technologies/design-and-technologies/
curriculum/f-10?layout=1)
Foundation – Year 2 ACTDEK003, ACTDIK002, ACTDIP003, ACTDIP005, ACTDIP006
Years 3 & 4 ACTDEK012, ACTDIK008, ACTDIP009,
Years 5 & 6 ACTDEK021, ACTDIP016
Years 7 & 8 ACTDEK032, ACTDEK033, ACTDIP025, ACTDIP026, ACTDIP033
Years 9 & 10 ACTDEK044, ACTDIP044
Of course, as well as these educational outcomes, we hope that your students
enjoy being involved in Mildew Mania and this leads to being more interested in
science in the future!
5a. Curriculum links –
Science
The Australian Curriculum for the Learning
Area of science can be found here (including
work samples):
http://www.australiancurriculum.edu.au/
science/curriculum/f-10?layout=1
22 Mildew Mania 2018Foundation to Year 6 – Science Understanding
Mildew Mania 2018 23Foundation to Year 6 – Science as a Human Endeavour 24 Mildew Mania 2018
Foundation to Year 6 – Science Inquiry Skills
Mildew Mania 2018 25Year 7 to Year 10 – Science Understanding 26 Mildew Mania 2018
Year 7 to Year 10 – Science as a Human Endeavour,
Science Inquiry Skills
Mildew Mania 2018 275b. Extension activities
Practical
• Measure the growth rates of the different varieties of barley and wheat. Graph the
results over time.
• Look at plant structure, and draw and label different structures. Compare the
morphology of different varieties of barley and wheat.
• Look at a pustule of barley powdery mildew under a dissection microscope. Draw
and label what you see.
• Try to infect other plants by inoculating with conidia from the pustule of powdery
mildew. Which plants get infected and which don’t? Why?
• Repeat the experiment at a different time of year e.g. summer. Did you see a
difference in terms of infection? What are the effects of higher rainfall?
• Design a similar experiment with a different crop plant/disease. What will you do
to make it a fair test? State your hypothesis and include a control. Write up your
experiment as a scientific report.
• Collect a sample of soil mixture after your plants have been growing for some time.
Look at it under a magnifying lense/dissecting microscope. Classify matter into
living (insects, fungi) and non-living (particulates, dead plant matter).
• Conduct a germination experiment. What do seeds need to germinate? Water?
Light? Soil? Draw and label a diagram of a germinating seed e.g. cotyledon, radicle.
• Conduct a germination experiment. Use birdseed. How do different seeds
germinate? Timing, observations, number of leaves etc.
Theoretical
• Write up the Mildew Mania experiment as a scientific report and/or explore the
different ways scientists can share their findings e.g. poster, talk, video.
• Use digital systems to present the data (from your class or from the state-wide
experiment) creatively.
• Calculate how many seeds germinated out of the total for each plant variety. This
is the germination rate. How many extra seeds would farmers need to plant if they
need to grow around nine plants per square metre?
• Using the results from other groups, map where the mildew is found and not found
in WA. Are there any noticeable patterns?
• Where did barley originate? How has it changed during domestication i.e. how does
wild barley differ from domesticated barley?
• What are the positive (e.g. decomposers) vs negative (disease) impacts of fungi?
• What is the role of fungi in food production/production of medicines?
• Explore the classification of cells – difference between fungi, plant and animal cells:
physical properties and reproduction. Explore the genetics of resistance in barley
varieties. Using biotechnology, design a diagnostic test to determine if a specific
barley cultivar contains a mutation in a resistance gene.
• What are the social and economic impacts of fungal infections of crops?
E.g. Bananageddon http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/politics/
bananageddon-millions-face-hunger-as-deadly-fungus-decimates-global-banana-
crop-9239464.html
28 Mildew Mania 20185c. Variations to the core experiment
We have provided you with enough barley seeds to be able carry out variations of the core
experiment if you desire. Or alternatively, you might like to source your own materials to
run the experiment of your choice. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Use a different crop
e.g. powdery mildew
on vine crops
Explore different
chemicals as Different fungal
fungicides e.g. diseases that infect
vinegar, antiseptic barley and wheat
solution e.g. leaf rust
Compare results in CORE How do drought
different growing conditions affect
mediums e.g. sand Mildew fungal growth? Plant
Mania growth?
Vary the amount of Compare results in
fertiliser added different light levels
e.g. dark, full sun
Compare results
Compare different
at different
growing methods
temperatures
e.g. hydroponic vs
traditional
Mildew Mania 2018 296. FURTHER RESOURCES
Curtin resources to assist you (all available online at mildewmania.com.au):
1. Mildew Mania website.
2. PowerPoint presentation of what powdery mildew looks like.
3. PowerPoint presentation of the lifecycle of barley powdery mildew and testing
techniques.
4. PowerPoint presentation of what happens to your samples once they reach the lab.
5. Youtube videos on “How to...”.
6. Mildew Mania Infographic.
Further web resources on barley and fungi:
1. Powdery Mildew in Barley and Wheat Fact Sheet (Grains Research and Development
Corporation) http://www.grdc.com.au/GRDC-FS-PowderyMildewBarleyWheat
2. Barley variety guide for WA
https://grdc.com.au/Resources/Publications/2017/01/2017-Barley-variety-guide-for-
Western-Australia
3. Wheat variety guide for WA
https://grdc.com.au/Resources/Publications/2015/04/2015-Wheat-variety-guide-for-
Western-Australia
4. Identify and Learn about Fungi and the fungimap project (Putting Australian fungi on
the map!) http://fungimap.org.au/
http://fungimap.org.au/
30 Mildew Mania 20187. APPENDIX
7a. Glossary
Agar – a gel derived from red algae or seaweed and is used throughout the world to
provide a solid medium for the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Asexual reproduction – a mode of reproduction by which offspring arise from a single
parent, and inherit the genes of that parent only.
Barley – a cereal grain derived from the annual grass Hordeum vulgare. Barley has
many uses. It serves as a major animal feed, as a base malt for beer and certain distilled
beverages, and as a component of various health foods.
Biotroph – an organism that can only survive and reproduce through obtaining nutrients
from another organism (an external host).
Chlorosis – a condition in which leaves produce insufficient chlorophyll. As chlorophyll is
responsible for the green colour of leaves, chlorotic leaves are pale, yellow, or yellow-white.
Chlorosis is typically caused when leaves do not have enough nutrients to synthesize all
the chlorophyll they need. It can be brought about by a combination of factors.
Conidia (singular. a conidium) (sometimes termed conidiospores) – are asexual, non-motile
spores of a fungus.
Cultivar – a plant or group of plants selected for desirable characteristics that can be
maintained by propagation.
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) – nucleic acid that contains the genetic instructions used in
the development and functioning of all known living organisms (with the exception of
RNA viruses). The main role of DNA molecules is the long-term storage of information.
Epidermis – a single-layered group of cells that covers plants’ leaves, flowers, roots and
stems. It forms a boundary between the plant and the external world.
Epidemic – a widespread occurrence of a disease.
Foliar – of or relating to a leaf or leaves.
Fungicides – chemical compounds or biological organisms used to kill or inhibit fungi or
fungal spores.
Fungi – (singular: fungus) a member of a large group of eukaryotic organisms that includes
microorganisms such as yeasts and moulds, as well as the more familiar mushrooms. These
organisms are classified as a kingdom, Fungi, which is separate from plants, animals, and
bacteria.
Germination – the process by which a plant grows from a seed.
Gene – a unit of heredity in a living organism. Living things depend on genes. Genes
hold the information to build and maintain an organism’s cells and pass genetic traits to
offspring.
Genetic mutation – in molecular biology and genetics, mutations are changes in a
genomic sequence: the DNA sequence of a cell’s genome or the DNA or RNA sequence of a
virus. They can be defined as sudden and spontaneous changes in the cell.
Mildew Mania 2018 31Jockey – a product trade name for a quinazoline-based triazole fungicide which can be applied as a seed dressing and is useful against a range of disease in wheat and barley. Malting – the process of converting barley into malt, for use in brewing or distilling. Mildew – refers to certain kinds of mold or fungus. Mycelium (plural mycelia) – the vegetative part of a fungus, consisting of a mass of branching, thread-like hyphae. Necrotrophic fungi (necrotrophs) – parasitic fungi that gain their nutrients and energy from dead cells of other organisms (the hosts). Plant pathology – the scientific study of plant diseases caused by pathogens (infectious diseases) and environmental conditions (physiological factors). Pustules – the powdery ‘spots’ seen on the plant infected with Bgh/Bgt. It is a group of conidia coming from a single Bgh/Bgt colony at the infection site. Sexual reproduction – the creation of a new organism by combining the genetic material of two organisms. Sow – to scatter or plant (seed) over or in the ground for growing. Spores – a reproductive cell capable of developing into a new individual without fusion with another reproductive cell, that may be adapted for dispersal and for survival, often for extended periods of time, in unfavorable conditions. Race – an interbreeding, usually geographically isolated population of organisms differing from other populations of the same species in the frequency of hereditary traits. A race that has been given formal taxonomic recognition is known as a subspecies. Triazole – a group of chemicals that inhibit biological activity, notably as antifungals, antimicrobials, and enzymatic inhibitors. Wheat – a cereal crop grown throughout Australia which is usually milled down to produce flour. 32 Mildew Mania 2018
7b. Contact details for project staff and scientists
Project Manager
Mildew Mania Coordinator
Curtin University
Faculty of Science and Engineering
Tel 08 9266 4722
Email l.patterson@curtin.edu.au
Web http://mildewmania.com.au/
Postal address – Faculty of Science and Engineering
Building 216, First Floor
Curtin University,
Kent St, Bentley, WA 6102
Technical/Scientists
Dr Nola D’Souza
Senior Research Officer – Centre for Crop and Disease Management
Faculty Science and Engineering
Curtin University
Tel 08 9266 9138
Email Nola.Dsouza@curtin.edu.au
Dr Simon Ellwood
Program Leader – Centre for Crop and Disease Management
Faculty Science and Engineering
Curtin University
Tel 08 9266 9915
Email Simon.Ellwood@curtin.edu.au
Professor Richard Oliver
Chief Scientific Officer – Centre for Crop and Disease Management
Faculty Science and Engineering
Curtin University
Email richard.oliver@curtin.edu.au
Mildew Mania 2018 337c. Experiment Record Sheet
Mildew Mania 2018
School: School Address:
Teacher’s Name: Year/subject: Number of Students:
BAUDIN/ WYALKATCHEM Date planted:______________
Did Baudin get infected? ☐ No
☐ Yes What date was the infection first noticed?:______________
Did you take a leaf sample? ☐ No ☐ Yes Date:_________
Did you take a specimen swab? ☐ No ☐ Yes Date:_________
Did you take a photo? ☐ No ☐ Yes Date:_________
Did the Wyalkatchem ☐ No
Wheat get infected? ☐ Yes What date was the infection first noticed?:______________
Did you take a leaf sample? ☐ No ☐ Yes Date:________
Did you take a specimen swab? ☐ No ☐ Yes Date:________
Did you take a photo? ☐ No ☐ Yes Date:________
BULOKE/ HINDMARSH / OXFORD Date planted: _____________
Did Buloke get infected? ☐ No
☐ Yes What date was the infection first noticed?:______________
Did you take a leaf sample? ☐ No ☐ Yes Date:________
Did you take a specimen swab? ☐ No ☐ Yes Date:________
Did you take a photo? ☐ No ☐ Yes Date:________
Did Hindmarsh get infected? ☐ No
☐ Yes What date was the infection first noticed?:______________
Did you take a leaf sample? ☐ No ☐ Yes Date:________
Did you take a specimen swab? ☐ No ☐ Yes Date:________
Did you take a photo? ☐ No ☐ Yes Date:________
Did Oxford get infected? ☐ No
☐ Yes What date was the infection first noticed?:______________
Did you take a leaf sample? ☐ No ☐ Yes Date:________
Did you take a specimen swab? ☐ No ☐ Yes Date:________
Did you take a photo? ☐ No ☐ Yes Date:________
Please describe the area where the plants were grown:
Did you take a photo of the area? ☐ No ☐ Yes Date:_____________
34 Mildew Mania 20187d. Curtin science disciplines and course information
Science disciplines at Curtin University
http://scieng.curtin.edu.au/
Within the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Curtin there are many science discipline areas.
These include:
• Physics and Astronomy
• Engineering and Mining
• Chemistry and Biochemistry
• Environment, Agriculture and Sustainability
• Geology and Geophysics
• Mathematics and Statistics
• IT and Computing
• Spatial Sciences
• Multidisciplinary Science
Research
The science disciplines at Curtin have an exemplary research profile with a number of institutes and
research centres covering such areas as Nanochemistry, Materials Research, Water Quality, Marine
Science, Corrosion, Radio Astronomy, Mass Spectrometry, Environmental Science and Agriculture.
Outreach
The Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) Outreach Program coordinates events,
excursions and activities for schools, teachers and the community – most of which are free.
To keep up to date with Curtin STEM Outreach activities, join the email list at
www.curtincuriousscience.eventbrite.com/
Centre for Crop and Disease Management
Curtin University’s Centre for Crop and Disease Management (CCDM) is delivering high-
impact research that makes a real difference to agricultural industries. Supported by the Grains
Research and Development Corporation (GRDC), our centre aims to improve the economics and
sustainability of farming by combatting common crop diseases through genetics and fungicide
research, while improving agronomy and farm management practices.
The CCDM is building on Curtin’s previous work through the Australian Centre for Necrotrophic
Fungal Pathogens (ACNFP) that has delivered discoveries and outcomes estimated to be saving
industry $85 million per year. By 2020, the savings from the discoveries and outcomes is expected
to increase to nearly $400 million per year, not to mention the savings from the decreased use of
fungicides. Both horticultural and grain industries benefit from CCDM’s research and development.
Working on challenges in agronomy, agricultural extension, economics and farm management,
the CCDM aims to improve the sustainability of farm businesses, rural communities and the
environment and deliver better bottom line solutions across Australia and beyond.
For more information see http://ccdm.com.au/
Mildew Mania 2018 35Environment and Agriculture at Curtin https://scieng.curtin.edu.au/schools/school-of-molecular-and-life-sciences/ Environment and Agriculture is one of the disciplines at Curtin which seeks to address the important issues facing our planet across the terrestrial and marine landscapes in the areas of biodiversity, climate change and the sustainability of food production. Our courses are supported by research-led teaching and delivered by academics with industry experience and the dedication to creating a better world. Within our main areas of research we have significant government collaborations and strong industry links and we create an impact both at a regional, national and international levels. Agribusiness To satisfy the growing demand for food worldwide, we need smarter ways of producing crops and resources using sustainable production methods, innovation and responsible entrepreneurship. The practice of agriculture is radically different from the past, when it meant ploughing a field, planting seed, harvesting a crop, milking cows or feeding livestock on a small scale. Agriculture has evolved into agribusiness and has become a vast and complex system that reaches far beyond the farm, to include all those who are involved in bringing wholesome food and fibre to consumers. Coastal and Marine Science Covering over 70 per cent of the Earth’s surface, oceans are a source of life, food and precious resources. Coastal zones are under increasing pressure from human impacts such as commercial fisheries, oil and gas extraction, township growth, resorts, tourism and recreation. This science course major targets the growing need to sustain and protect Australia’s coastline, with an emphasis on resource management. Environmental Biology Environment exploitation has taken a serious toll on the planet and Environmental biologists are needed to solve issues such as environmental degradation, the impacts of urban and regional development, mining, oil and gas extraction and processing, as well as biodiversity loss and pollution. Available as a science course major, this provides graduates with fundamental knowledge of how organisms are structured, and how they interact with their surroundings. Environmental Science Environmental scientists focus on applying scientific techniques to study interactions between people and the rest of the world, including living and non-living environments. Unlike environmental biologists, they focus on the environment, not the animals that inhabit an ecosystem. In the final year of study, a significant research project in conduction with research groups and industry partners is undertaken. 36 Mildew Mania 2018
CONTACT US Lori Patterson Faculty of Science and Engineering Curtin University Kent St Bentley WA 6102 GPO Box U1987 Perth WA 6845 http://mildewmania.com.au/ T:+61 08 9266 4722 E: l.patterson@curtin.edu.au Subject line to include ‘Mildew Mania 2018’ Information in this publication is correct at the time of printing and valid for 2018 but may be subject to change. This material does not purport to constitute legal or professional advice. Curtin accepts no responsibility for and makes no representations, whether express or implied, as to the accuracy or reliability in any respect of any material in this publication. Except to the extent mandated otherwise by legislation, Curtin University does not accept responsibility for the consequences of any reliance which may be placed on this material by any person. Curtin will not be liable to you or to any other person for any loss or damage (including direct, consequential or economic loss or damage) however caused and whether by negligence or otherwise which may result directly or indirectly from the use of this publication. © Curtin University 2018 CRICOS Provider Code 00301J (WA) 02637B (NSW)
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