Soybean rust found in Southeast Missouri

Asian Soybean Rust has infected soybean plants in Southeast Missouri, but it's appearance is late enough in the season that the state's major soybean marketing association says it's not concerned about the fungus.

The soybean rust was discovered on plants in Scott and Pemiscot counties, the USDA has confirmed. The fungus was also discovered in Southern Illinois on Wednesday, and has been discovered in 13 states this year.

"Most soybean fields throughout Missouri have already matured to the point that rust shouldn't be a factor," said Dale R. Ludwig, director of the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council, in a news release issued Wednesday evening. "We recommend farmers contact their local extension office if they suspect they've found rust in their fields."

In Southeast Missouri, 54 percent of soybeans are dropping leaves, according to the latest USDA estimates released Sunday.

Soybean rust is a disease that affects the plant's leaves and is caused by a fungus that originated in Asia. It was first found in the U.S., and in Southeast Missouri, in 2004.

The rust discolors leaves and causes premature defoliation, leading to significant yield loss and early maturity in soybean plants.

Scientists are trying to identify strains of soybeans that demonstrate natural resistance to the fungus that causes soybean rust.