The aim of this project was to select highly sensitive and specific aptamer capable of detecting Fusarium graminearum (Fg) and F. pseudograminearum (Fp) species. The aptamer-based testing allows early detection of fungal infection in the field. Fungi are known to change their activity and may often undergo genetic changes. The classic "gene for gene" theory explains the relationship between host plant cultivars and fungal pathogenic races.

The thesis investigates the growth promoting effects of plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) in chickpea and wheat. Three main topics covered are: 1) Isolating local Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria; 2) Screening and characterization of isolates; 3) Assessment and identification of the selected strains.