19 species of Pythium in damped-off soybeans
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Saturated soils favor seedling disease caused by Pythium species. During the 2011 growing season, Extension soybean pathologists from the north central states conducted a seedling disease survey to identify oomycete pathogens that cause damping-off in soybean. The survey is part of a larger project that is being funded by USDA NIFA.
In the first year of this study, 54 Pythium species and two Phytophthora species, including Phytophthora sojae, were recovered from damped-off soybean seedlings collected from throughout the north central region. In Iowa, 19 Pythium species and Phytophthora sojae were recovered. Many of the species recovered have been reported as pathogens of soybean seedlings, but some of the species have not. To determine if these other species are pathogenic on soybean, we will have to do “Koch’s postulates.” This is the accepted scientific method for identifying the causal agent of a disease.
Further research will include comparing the pathogenicity and aggressiveness among and within species, and assessing the sensitivity of each species to fungicides used in seed treatments.
In 2012 this survey will continue, with additional funding from the United Soybean Board used to identify fungal pathogens (Fusarium spp. and Rhizoctonia species); pathogens associated with damping off of soybean.
Data from these studies will add to our knowledge of soybean seedling disease and lead to enhanced management through improved use of seed treatment fungicides and use of resistance.
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