Root rot
scouted June 6, 2024
- Scientific Name
- Pythium sp. and Fusarium sp.
- Background
- Soybeans in Lenoir County, variety NK47-Z1XF, were scouted, and it was observed that approximately 60% of the field was affected by yellowing and stubby root symptoms. The affected areas were randomly distributed and widespread across the field. The root system appeared to have developed abnormally soon after planting, though it is unclear whether disease pressure contributed to the weakened plants, given the broad distribution of symptoms. Soybean cysts were visible on some plants; however, it is uncertain whether soybean cysts are the primary cause of the stunted root systems or if another pathogen is present.
- Conclusion
- The cause of the disease was identified as Pythium sp. and Fusarium sp. Fusarium root rot can result in both pre- and post-emergence damping-off, leading to delayed emergence and stunting of infected seedlings. Root rot symptoms typically manifest as dark brown discoloration, with lesions extending through the vascular tissue to the hypocotyls and are often accompanied by the absence of secondary roots. Pythium species have a very similar survival mechanism and infection process. The overwintering oospores will germinate in saturated soils infecting the plant or producing more infectious spores that move through water to infect healthy plants. Pythium species overwintering oospores will germinate in saturated soils infecting the plant or producing more infectious spores that move through water to infect healthy plants.
- Resources
-
- No resources have been added.
