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Diaporthe phaseolorum is caused by a fungus and exhibits various symptoms. Severe infestation leads to significant yield losses and a reduction in the germination capacity of seeds.

Biology

Diaporthe phaseolorum belongs to the group of tubular fungi (Ascomycota).

The fungus overwinters both on seeds and on plant residues. In spring, it forms fruiting bodies (perithecia and pycnidia) on plant residues. The spores contained therein reach the plants by means of raindrops.

So far, there are four known pathogens that are assigned to the Diaporthe complex:

• Diaporthe phaseolorum var. sojae (pod and stem rot).
• Phomopsis longicolla (seed rot)
• Diaporthe phase olorum var. caulivora (northern stem rot)
• Diaporthe phaseolorum var. meridionalis (Southern stem canker)

Host plants

Diaporthe phaseolorum occurs mainly on soybean.

However, the fungus also attacks other plant species, such as garlic, common bean, lupine, bush clover, onion, peanut, tomato, etc.

Distribution

Diaporthe phaseolorum is distributed worldwide.

Propagation and transmission

The fungus overwinters on both seeds and plant residues and is thus seed- and soil-borne. The spores contained in the seed reach the plants by means of raindrops, which is why infection is often found in the lower third of soybean plants. Best conditions for infection are high rainfall, warm temperatures, and high relative humidity as the seeds mature. Infestation is also encouraged by a late harvest under warm, humid conditions.

Economic importance

Diaporthe phaseolorum is one of the most important seed-borne diseases of soybean. Heavy infestation can lead to yield losses of up to 100% and a 90% reduction in seed germination.

Prevention and control

• Use of healthy, high quality seed to minimize the risk of infection.
• Alternating crop rotation with corn and other non-legumes
• Incorporation of crop residues into the soil
• Immediate harvest of soybeans as soon as they are mature, preferably in dry conditions

Services

Plant Health Services