For those who grow soybeans, it is common to face problems such as Asian rust and cyst nematode. These are two of the most common diseases that appear in crops and can affect production, causing major losses. According to Marilize Oliveira, research analyst at TMG, there are ways to identify and prevent these diseases to avoid losses.
Asian rust is caused by the fungus Phakopsora pachyrhizi and is considered one of the main problems faced by producers. “The symptoms begin with the appearance of small angular lesions forming uredia (pathogen reproduction structure) on the underside of the leaf. As the disease progresses, the lesions become light brown (TAN lesion) or reddish-brown (RB lesion - “reddish-brown”). The shape of these lesions is delimited by the veins of the leaves and can occur at any phenological stage of the crop, being more common after flowering. Asian rust causes leaf yellowing and the plant can lose its leaves prematurely, which reduces the number of pods per plant and grains per pod, in addition to the grain generated having a lower weight”, he explains.
Soybean cyst nematode (NCS), Heterodera glycines, is one of the nematodes that have been causing great damage to the crop. “Losses can be between 5% and 30% in places with low infestations and reach 70% in those with higher incidence”, he comments.
More prevalent in the state of Mato Grosso, mainly in places with sandy or medium-sandy soils, the soybean cyst nematode is characterized by a slight reduction in the size of the plant, even in regions with good rainfall distribution and in naturally fertile soils. taller. “In crops where there is a large affected area, premature plant death is common,” says the expert.
To prevent both diseases, Marilize recommends investing in resistant cultivars developed with specific genetic improvement technologies for each disease, considering the soil and climate conditions of each region. “Genetic improvement plays an important role in helping producers avoid productivity losses”, he adds.
Receive the latest agriculture news by email
Receive the latest agriculture news by email
The lack of more voluminous rainfall to maintain good humidity in orchard soils is already a cause for concern among rural producers, which can cause a reduction in fruit size
