Foliar fortification of Copper (Cu) in Glycine max L. for the protection against Asian Soybean Rust (Phakopsora pachyrhizi Syd. & P.Syd.)

Abstract

The Asian Soybean Rust caused by the fungus Phakopsora pachyrhizi is one of the serious phytosanitary problems faced by soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill], which cause up to 80% yield loss. An alternative for the integrated management of the disease is the use of mineral nutrition together with phytosanitary treatments. Thus, the objective of this study is to understand the effect of foliar fortification with copper (Cu) along with phytosanitary treatments in the soybean reaction to Rust by lignin content variation in leaf tissues, and how it reflects the yield. The experimental design was a randomized block with four replicates. Four concentrations Cu (30, 60, 90, 120 g Cu ha-1) were tested in two distinct sources (cuprous oxide and copper carbonate) together with phytosanitary treatments. Evaluations were made to determine the progression of Asian Rust severity, micronutrient content in leaves and grains, as well as lignin content in leaves. The grain yield components and productivity were also evaluated. The Cu contents in the soybean leaves and grains were influenced by foliar spraying. Foliar spray with Cu retarded the disease progression, reducing the severity of Asian Rust and positively impacting grain yield. The amount of lignin present in the leaves was altered considerably with the application of the Cu associated with phytosanitary treatments. The results suggest that the leaf nutrition with copper together with phytosanitary treatments, may reduce the rust severity and improvement the plant performance. Future research with Cu application and analysis of specific enzymes, secondary metabolites and cell wall thickness may further contribute to the understanding of the role of Cu in defence against Asian Soybean Rust.