NPDN 2007 Meeting - Soybean Rust: Detection and Diagnosis in the U.S.

NPDN National Meeting 2007

Poster Abstract

Soybean Rust: Detection and Diagnosis in the U.S.

Authors: CARRIE L. HARMON (1), Jan M. Byrne (2), Don E. Hershman (3), Howard Schwartz (4), Joy Pierzynski (5), Melodie L. Putnam (6)

Affiliations: (1) SPDN, Dept. of Plant Pathology, UF, Gainesville, FL, USA; (2) NCPDN, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA; (3) Department of Plant Pathology, University of Kentucky, Princeton, KY, USA; (4) Department of Bioagricultural Sciences and Pest Management, Colorado State University, Ft. Collins, CO, USA; (5) Department of Plant Pathology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA; (6) Plant Clinic, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA

Asian and New World soybean rusts are caused by Phakopsora pachyrhizi and P. meibomiae, respectively. P. pachyrhizi was on the USDA’s List of Select Agents in 2002, but was de-listed in 2005 once the fungus had become established in the southern U.S. Reclassification of P. pachyrhiz i was the result of requests by scientists to be able to work with the pathogen in light of its widespread distribution in the U.S. and its potential to significantly impact U.S. agriculture. Prior to the first U.S. detection of soybean rust, NPDN diagnosticians were trained to identify this pathogen at APHIS training sessions, by viewing preserved spores and infected leaves, and via teleconference with a PPQ Mycology Identifier. Funds were secured to purchase real-time PCR capability for each region, enabling the detection of the pathogen prior to symptom development. Research efforts in 4 regions in conjunction with ARS scientists determined the early detection limits of this technology. Additional research compared microscopic, serological and PCR methods. First detectors were trained in all 5 regions to scout and properly collect samples. The NPDN and its partners have contributed to a wealth of information and resources, such as scouting guides and the real-time reporting of the PIPE project, that support the national effort to protect U.S. legumes from soybean rust.

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