By Greg Tylka, Extension Plant Pathologist
The first generation of soybean cyst nematode (SCN) females is now visible on the roots of soybeans growing in SCN-infested fields in Iowa. The SCN females, which contain 250 or more eggs each, are white and about the size of a period at the end of a printed sentence (Fig. 1). The females are much smaller and lighter in color than nitrogen-fixing nodules, which are the color of the roots.
Digging roots (not pulling) and closely looking for SCN females is a simple, yet effective, way to check fields for the presence of SCN.
Unfortunately, resistance-breaking populations of SCN are somewhat common in Iowa and throughout the Midwest these days. Checking the roots of SCN-resistant soybean cultivars for SCN females is a good way to gauge if the resistant cultivars are not controlling the nematode. Seeing a few SCN females on the roots of a resistant soybean plant would not be cause for great concern.
Dig and look at roots from multiple places throughout various parts of the field. If SCN hasn’t been found in a field previously, high risk areas for initial infestation of fields include near the field entryway, in low spots, and along fence lines where windblown soil accumulates.
![](/ext/resources/images/news/2016/june/ICMN-Fig1.jpg)
More information about the biology and management of SCN is available at www.soybeancyst.info and www.soybeanresearchinfo.com.
Post a comment
Report Abusive Comment