Pests are a huge problem in Iowa fields. One of those pesky critters is the soybean cyst nematode (SCN). Keeping ahead of the pest, and the way it has adapted to different treatments is a full-time job. Research into new methods of treatment are on-going. They are looking for new ways to get the population of SCN under control. All this research is made possible through funds from the Soybean Checkoff.
Audio: Full interview with Melissa Mitchum
Melissa Mitchum is a Nematologist from the University of Georgia. She says that researchers are working to find new ways to attack the SCN. Right now, there is only the PI 88788 resistance platform. She talks about what is needed next.
The research has gotten a big boost. Mitchum says they have been able to successfully map the nematodes genome, or their genetic blueprint.
Getting this genome mapped is like getting the other team?s playbook before the big game.
So, what does this mean for the future of fighting soybean cyst nematodes? Mitchum says that this means that there will be new varieties and new modes of action that can be rotated, thus keeping the nematodes more at bay.
Without the funding of the Soybean Checkoff, none of these advancements would be possible. It is important for science to keep searching for ways to fight back against yield-robbing pests like SCN.
To learn more about the work of the SCN coalition and to watch their ?Let?s Talk Todes? video series. Log on to theSCNCoalition.com/research.
