The Uromyces pea and lentil rusts are major fungal pests affecting Pisum spp. (field peas, garden peas etc.) and Vicia spp. (faba beans, vetch and lentils) as well as other members of the pea family. Uromyces pisi is not present in Australia and considered a high risk to the pea industry. Uromyces viciae-fabae occurs in Australia on faba beans and vetch but not on field peas or lentils. U. viciae-fabae is considered a high economic threat to field pea and lentils because of potential yield losses through reduced production.
Rusts can build up rapidly and are mostly seen as the weather warms above 20ºC. Leaves, stems and pods can be infected. The first symptoms are minute whitish slightly raised spots that as they enlarge change to orange-brown in colour, often surrounded by a light coloured halo.
The Uromyces pea and lentil rusts could be confused with other rusts. However, neither rust has been recorded on field peas in Australia. If pea rust symptoms are seen on field peas a sample should be sent for further testing to identify the species. U. viciae-fabae is present in Australia and can infect faba beans. If faba bean infestation is high, U. viciae-fabae may also infest adjacent field pea crops. If resistant varieties show symptoms samples should be taken for further testing.
The characteristic spots on the leaf surfaces and other plant parts are an obvious indicator that rust is present.
Rust spores are small, light and may survive for several days. They can be spread large distances by windblown infected plant debris during harvest into adjacent paddocks or easily attach to clothing, machinery and tools allowing movement and spread between farms and regions.
Pea rust has been recorded from North America, South America, Africa, Europe, Asia and U. viciae-fabae is found on faba beans in Australia. If either rust were to become established in Australia, they have the potential to disrupt the field pea or lentil industry.
Check your farm frequently for the presence of new pests and unusual symptoms. Make sure you are familiar with common grains pests so you can tell if you see something different.
If you see anything unusual, call the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.
Check your farm frequently for the presence of new pests and unusual symptoms. Make sure you are familiar with common grains pests so you can tell if you see something different.
If you see anything unusual, call the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.