2013
Evaluation plant pest interactions to optimize soybean yield
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Contributor/Checkoff:
Iowa Soybean Association
Category:
Sustainable Production
Keywords:
Biotic stressCrop protectionField management Pest
Parent Project:
This is the first year of this project.
Lead Principal Investigator:
Erin Hodgson, Iowa State University
Co-Principal Investigators:
Aaron Gassmann, Iowa State University
Gregory Tylka, Iowa State University
+1 More
Project Code:
Contributing Organization (Checkoff):
Iowa Soybean Association
(n/a)
Institution Funded:
Iowa State University
(n/a)
Brief Project Summary:

With the advent of new seed treatment management products and resistance of soybean varieties, there is a need to evaluate the interactions of these management tactics with soybean aphids and soybean cyst nematode infested fields. There is interest in understanding the effects of these management tactics on naturally occurring soil-borne organisms which may play a critical role in keeping pest population densities in check.

Unique Keywords:
#best management practices, #insects and pests, #soybean aphid, #soybean cyst nematode (scn), #soybean disease management, #soybean educational activities
Information And Results
Project Deliverables

Final Project Results

During the summers of 2013-2015, two field locations were established each year. Plots were set up in a randomized complete block design with eight replications, including four soybean varieties (susceptible, SBA resistant, SCN resistant, and SBA+SCN resistant), and three seed treatments (naked, ApronMaxx, Avicta Complete). Soybean aphid (SBA) populations were monitored during the summer and cumulative aphid days were estimated for each treatment. Soybean cyst nematode (SCN) eggs were sampled at planting and harvest.

Results of the 3-year study:
• SBA- and SCN-resistant varieties support lower populations of aphids and nematodes, respectively.
• SCN-resistant varieties yield higher than SCN-susceptible varieties.
• Seed treatments did not consistently improve yields, even with SBA- and SCN-susceptible varieties

Conclusions of the 3-year study:
• SBA resistance (Rag genes) is an effective suppression tool and may reduce the reliance on foliar insecticides.
• SBA-resistant variety breeding needs to improve yield potential.
• SCN resistance (PI88788) reduces SCN populations and is an important consideration for variety selection.
• Using host plant resistance with seed treatments did not consistently produce higher yields.
• Prophylactic use of pesticidal seed treatments may not provide higher soybean yields, particularly on host plant resistance soybean varieties.

The United Soybean Research Retention policy will display final reports with the project once completed but working files will be purged after three years. And financial information after seven years. All pertinent information is in the final report or if you want more information, please contact the project lead at your state soybean organization or principal investigator listed on the project.