Understanding the biology and genetics of pathogens will equip specialists to develop methods of combating diseases as they change. This project is a "base" project involving field plots, control strategies and cooperation with researchers working on genetic approaches to disease control. It continues to assess foliar applications of minor elements, essential iron, on the development of Cercospora leaf blight, soybean rust and other diseases. It also continues work on the role of seedborne inoculum in disease development and identification of compounds involved in neutralizing the toxin produced by C. kikuchii in the leaves. The project continues to assess populations of C. kikuchii for genetic diversity to see how rapidly the pathogen is changing.

Key Benefactors:
farmers, agronomists, Extension agents, soybean breeders, seed companies