The new Phytobiomes journal aims to bridge the gap between basic and applied research in sustainable crop production. The journal publishes high-quality research papers on phytobiomes, exploring interactions between plants and their environment.
A new study published in Phytobiomes found conflicting effects of climate change on the spread of Pierce's disease, an economically important grapevine disease. Rising temperatures can bring both positive and negative effects on disease development, depending on vector behavior.
A recent study published in Phytobiomes found that the use of cereal rye as a cover crop can lead to elevated disease risk in corn. Researchers isolated and characterized oomycetes, including Pythium species, which were associated with cereal rye roots and passed on to corn seedlings.
Researchers identified a novel biological aspect of Rhizoctonia solani, where bacteria persistently associate with the fungus during growth on solid media. This association affects the biology of the fungal host and its interactions with plants, raising prospects for developing alternative disease management strategies.
A new research paper examines the effects of Sudden Vegetation Dieback on salt marsh soil communities, finding a reduction in Bacteroidetes-related bacteria and an enrichment of sulfate-reducing bacteria. The study highlights the importance of wetlands as natural carbon sinks and mitigating future climate change.
The APS Foundation presented several monetary awards to recognize excellence in teaching, research, and international service. H. David Shew received the Lucy Hastings de Gutiérrez Award for Excellence in Teaching, while Andrew F. Bent won the Noel T. Keen Award for Research Excellence in Molecular Plant Pathology.
The American Phytopathological Society announced Ewen Callaway as the 2009 APS Plant Pathology Journalism Award winner. His article, 'The Green Menace,' discussed the citrus disease huanglongbing, which has devastated the citrus industry since its arrival in US soil in 2005.
The American Phytopathological Society recognized outstanding contributions to plant pathology with its 2009 awards. The APS Fellow class of 2009 includes prominent researchers and educators from around the world. Notable winners include Anne E. Dorrance, Charles Mellinger, H. David Shew, and Richard A. Sikora.
US crops are susceptible to attack by terrorists, who could use devastating plant pathogens as weapons. The need for prevention and preparedness strategies is crucial, including border inspections, crop surveillance, and rapid pathogen identification.
Pam Henderson received the APS Plant Pathology Journalism Award for her nine-article series on Asian Soybean Rust, which raised public awareness of the disease. The award recognizes outstanding achievement in increasing knowledge and understanding of plant pathology.
Plant diseases such as Dutch elm disease and dogwood anthracnose threaten urban tree health, while environmental stresses like flooding and pollution harm their vitality. Urban forestry experts emphasize the importance of managing these issues for community well-being.
The three most important and damaging cacao diseases, black pod, frosty pod, and witches' broom, are threatening global chocolate production. According to plant pathology professor Randy Ploetz, black pod could reduce yields by an additional one million metric tons per year in West Africa.
Researchers found that 27 of 29 weed species can harbor Xylella fastidiosa, a bacterium causing Pierce's disease in grapes. Environmental conditions significantly impact bacterial growth, highlighting the need for targeted weed control measures to prevent disease spread.
Research on aquatic plant diseases has created environmentally sound methods of control, including using plant pathogens to manage invasive species. The symposium will address the biology, ecology, and control of aquatic plant diseases in freshwater and marine environments.
Soybean rust, a fungal disease affecting crops in Africa, Asia, Australia, and South America, has caused up to 80% yield losses. Plant pathologists will discuss research on overwintering, movement, host plant resistance, and chemical control during the APS Annual Meeting symposium.
Plant pathologists warn that SBS is a complex problem requiring objective inspections for possible causes. Mold growth and dust are two of the main contributors to SBS, necessitating the expertise of more plant pathologists and mycologists.
A recent study highlights the importance of implementing sanitary growing and harvesting conditions worldwide to reduce the risk of human disease outbreaks linked to fresh produce. Plant pathologists emphasize the need for good quality irrigation water and sanitary worker conditions, particularly as international imports increase.
Plant pathologists and experts will discuss Soybean Rust's potential impact on US agriculture, citing significant yield losses and costly fungicide control measures. The symposium will focus on disease management tools, resistant breeding programs, detection methods, and a new USDA Action Plan.
Scientists have identified genetic resistance to aflatoxin production in over five major crops, with commercially usable resistant varieties expected to be available soon. Crop management practices such as irrigation and early harvesting can also significantly reduce aflatoxin content.
Researchers successfully revived bacteria extracted from ancient bees preserved in amber, opening up new possibilities for pharmaceuticals and industrial applications. Ancient plant specimens are also being studied to understand genetic evolution and identify potential biocontrol uses.
Sorghum ergot is a serious fungal disease affecting hybrid seed production, causing significant losses in crop yields and food insecurity. Global cooperation among scientists and agencies is underway to develop strategies for fungicidal control, host-plant resistance, and ecology of ergot.
Plant pathologists are developing new management practices for disease control, including the use of ecologically-based strategies and biological control organisms. The phase-out of methyl bromide is expected to have a significant impact on American agriculture, prompting research into alternative pest control tools.
The American Association of Cereal Chemists' (AACC) 82nd Annual Meeting will take place in San Diego from October 12-16, featuring a technical program with topics such as blood glucose control, cereal carbohydrates, and sensory evaluation. Over 230 exhibitors will showcase the latest equipment and services.
The American Phytopathological Society recognizes distinguished members with the Fellows designation for their contributions to plant pathology. The Society also presents several awards, including the Excellence in Extension Award and the Ruth Allen Award, to honor outstanding research and teaching achievements in the field.
A recent study reveals that the potato famine fungus has resurfaced 150 years after its devastating impact on Ireland, with virulent and fungicide-resistant strains causing widespread damage. Researchers have identified several options for managing the blight, including DNA fingerprinting and simplified enzyme assays.