Soybean rust

Soybean rust, also known as Asian soybean rust, is a disease that affects soybeans and other legumes. It is caused by two types of fungi, Phakopsora pachyrhizi and Phakopsora meibomiae. P. meibomiae is the weaker pathogen of the two and generally does not cause widespread problems. The disease has been reported across Asia, Australia, Africa, South America and the United States.

Habitat
Soybean rust thrives on green, growing plants, and requires a climate which provides high moisture and moderate heat. It is unable to survive the cold winters of northern habitats.

Propagation
Soybean rust is spread by wind-borne spores, which are released in cycles of seven days to two weeks. It is commonly believed that the disease was carried from Venezuela to the United States by Hurricane Ivan.

Treatment
When properly applied, fungicides can be used preventively or to cure infected plants which, if left untreated, will eventually die.

Recent research from Washington State University indicates that the herbicide Glyphosate may be effective in dealing with the fungus.

Rust-resistant varieties of soybeans are currently in development by both public universities and private industry.