Pandemics rapidly reshape the evolutionary and ecological landscape and have cascading social, economic effects
Like human pandemics, plant pandemics are also associated with the coming of the Anthropocene and first started appearing with the rise of an interconnected world. Some of the first recorded pathogen outbreaks were associated with wheat, as recorded by the Romans (2100-1950 B.P.). In fact, the Romans had a god/goddess of rust (Robigus/Robigine) because these new pathogens were so feared. Feasts, processions, and sacrifices in their name were conducted in order to prevent crop destruction and stop future waves of reinfection. Over the past 200 years the number and severity of plant diseases has increased exponentially. Once a pathogen spreads globally, eradication becomes difficult or even impossible. Pathogens do not respect international boundaries. Efforts to reduce the movement of pathogens across borders or by quarantines are easily frustrated by globalization, travel, and trade.