Aphanomyces root rot

Infected roots with brown sugar-like appearance due to Aphanomyces

Aphanomyces root rot: biology

Soil surveys show that Aphanomyces is common across western Canada. And spore germination occurs throughout the year when conditions are favourable, especially high-moisture conditions to which this pest is very well-adapted.

Aphanomyces root rot: damage description

Aphanomyces euteiches is one of the causal agents of the root rot complex among susceptible pulse crops, including peas. The disease resulting from infection with A. euteiches is commonly referred to as Aphanomyces or Aphanomyces root rot.

Aphanomyces-infected roots in the late stages have been described as having a “brown sugar-like” appearance. (see photo courtesy of Crop Development Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 2014)

Aphanomyces root rot: management

Ethaboxam, one of the key active ingredients in Apron Maxx with INTEGO and Vibrance Maxx with INTEGO, is the only registered active ingredient with activity against A. euteiches. Scouting, keeping good field histories, soil sampling, crop rotations and cover crops, can all help to manage Aphanomyces root rot. Aphanomyces can remain present in the soil for up to 12 years – so rotations on their own are not effective.