Emerging Biotic and Abiotic Threats to Oat Production in China

ABSTRACT Oats are among the most significant cereal grains globally, valued for their diverse applications. In China, oat cultivation predominantly occurs in the northern and northwestern regions, particularly in higher‐elevation areas where cooler climates and fertile soils create optimal growing conditions. However, the production of oats is severely threatened by various biotic stresses, mainly diseases, which adversely affect both yield and quality. Additionally, abiotic stresses such as drought, frost and unfavourable soil conditions further complicate production efforts. In oat‐growing regions of China, rainfall is limited and primarily concentrated between July and September. The timing and intensity of this rainfall significantly influences disease prevalence, as persistent rainfall during the harvest season, coupled with high humidity and elevated temperatures, fosters ideal conditions for the spread of oat diseases. These environmental factors contribute to the increased incidence and severity of diseases and abiotic stresses, necessitating the development of breeding strategies to produce varieties that exhibit disease resistance and stress tolerance. Recent advancements in molecular marker‐assisted selection are being used to enhance the efficiency of breeding programmes, facilitating the identification of desirable traits linked to specific genetic markers. This review aims to address the existing gaps in the literature regarding oat production in China by examining the significant diseases and abiotic stresses affecting crops and exploring the development of resistant varieties for effective disease management. Ultimately, this work seeks to enhance understanding of the challenges faced in oat production, providing valuable insights for researchers, agronomists and policymakers.