A project investigating the molecular and histological effects of silicon application on cotton infected with Fov was inspired by promising preliminary results obtained by Dr Linda Smith (QPl&F) in glasshouse and

Despite its widespread occurrence, the genetics of fusarium wilt resistance in cotton has still not been clearly elucidated.

12 Main recommendations were made in consultation with panel and research institutes around the major future challenges for the cotton industry. These included:

*Drought and reduced research funding