EnviroLogix Inc., of Portland, Maine today introduced the first rapid test to detect soybean rust infections in plant tissue. They say the immunodiagnostic test for soybean rust is the first commercial kit available in an ELISA plate format. 

The test is a laboratory assay that takes about two hours to perform, and will provide a qualitative (presence/absence) answer.  The result is visible without needing a spectrophotometric reader, the company says.

In addition, the company says finalization is underway for a QuickStix 5-minute test strip for in-field testing they expect to have ready for this year's planting season.

Continue article

ADVERTISEMENT

The ELISA kit can detect one symptomatic leaf spot caused by Phakopsora species at a very early stage, before formation of a pustule and sporulation, the company says. 

Detailed information on the EnviroLogix kits is available at www.envirologix.com.

StopSoybeanRust.com is a Web site with news, information and resources about Asian soybean rust, created by the Greenbook, Dealer & Applicator magazine and Successful Farming magazine. It is sponsored by Bayer CropScience US. Cooperating partners include the United Soybean Board and the Crop Advisor Institute.