Ayesha Khan, Umar Farooq2 and Saba Abaid Ur Rehman3
1Department of Zoology, University of Layyah, Pakistan 2Department of Zoology, Wildlife & Fisheries, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan 3Lahore College for Women University, Lahore
*Corresponding author: ayeshakhan1070@gmail.com
Soybean (Glycine max L.) cultivation in the United States spans approximately 39.6 million hectares annually, yielding 2.7 to 3.4 tonnes per hectare, contributing over $40 billion annually. Despite their high economic value and versatility, soybeans face significant yield threats from various pathogens, including fungi, bacteria, nematodes, and oomycetes. Diseases such as soybean cyst nematode, charcoal rot, and seedling diseases consistently affect production regions, while others like Phytophthora stem and root rot, sudden death syndrome (SDS), and Sclerotinia stem rot are influenced by environmental conditions. The soybean cyst nematode remains a primary concern, causing substantial economic losses. Effective management strategies encompass genetic resistance, crop rotation, fungicides, biocontrol, and cultural practices tailored to regional conditions. Advancements in bioengineering have enhanced resistance traits, though the emergence of resistant pathogen biotypes presents ongoing challenges. Comprehensive understanding of pathogen biology, disease cycles, and environmental influences is crucial for developing integrated disease management approaches, ensuring sustainable soybean production and economic stability.