Tennessee Agricultural Pest Control Plant Category 1 Practice Exam

Soybean Rust is a significant disease affecting soybeans, caused by the fungi Phakopsora pachyrhizi and Phakopsora meibomiae. It poses a major threat to soybean crops because it can spread rapidly under favorable environmental conditions, especially warm and humid climates. The disease typically manifests as small, tan to dark brown lesions on the leaves, which can coalesce and lead to premature leaf drop. This loss of foliage can significantly reduce photosynthetic capacity, ultimately impacting yield.

Soybean Rust is particularly notable because it can spread over long distances through airborne spores, making it a challenge for farmers to manage. Early detection and timely fungicide applications are critical to mitigate its impact on soybean production. Knowledge of this disease is vital for soybean growers to implement effective management practices and protect their crops against potential losses.