Soybean Disease Loss Estimates for the Top 10 Soybean Producing Countries in 1994

TLDR

Effective soybean disease control requires research and extension to develop better preventive and therapeutic strategies for producers. The study aimed to document major soybean disease problems and recent changes in severity across the top ten soybean‑producing countries. Disease loss estimates for 1994 were compiled from field surveys, diagnostic samples, trial data, extension reports, research plots, grower demonstrations, and consultant reports across the ten largest soybean‑producing countries. In 1994, soybean losses in the top ten producing countries totaled 14.99 million metric tons ($3.31 billion), with Heterodera glycines causing the greatest loss, followed by stem canker, brown spot, and charcoal rot, while losses varied by country and rust was reported only in China and Indonesia.

Abstract

Soybean disease loss estimates were compiled for the 1994 harvested crop from the 10 countries with the greatest soybean production. The objective was to document the major soybean disease problems in these countries and any recent changes in the severity of individual soybean diseases. Total yield losses caused by Heterodera glycines in these 10 countries were greater than those caused by any other disease. Next in order of importance were stem canker, brown spot, and charcoal rot. The total yield loss due to disease during 1994 in these countries was 14.99 million metric tons, valued at $3.31 billion. Methods used to estimate soybean disease losses were field surveys, plant disease diagnostic clinic samples, variety trial data, information from field workers and university extension staff, research plots, grower demonstrations, and private crop consultant reports. Yield loss estimates due to a particular disease varied by country. For example, yield losses due to rust were reported from China and Indonesia, but no losses due to this disease were reported from any of the remaining eight countries. Soybean disease control research and extension efforts are needed to provide more effective preventive and therapeutic disease management strategies and systems to producers.