Early selection of soybean yield via agronomic trait phenotyping under Asian soybean rust pressure. http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/1984-70332026v26n1a10
Breeding high-yielding soybean cultivars under Asian soybean rust (ASR) pressure is frequently hindered by low selection accuracy in early plant generations, forcing breeders to advance excessively large, costly populations. In this study, researchers evaluated whether measuring simple agronomic traits—such as days to flowering, maturity, plant height, and seed weight—in early $F_2$ and $F_{2:3}$ generations could reliably predict $F_{2:5}$ progeny yields under active rust pressure. Using linear regression alongside machine learning algorithms, the team demonstrated that models based on $F_{2:3}$ maturity, flowering, and height performed best, achieving prediction determination coefficients ($R^2$) up to 52.12%. The authors conclude that early-generation phenotyping of simple agronomic traits provides a practical, cost-effective screening tool to eliminate low-potential lines early, significantly streamlining breeding pipelines and reducing field trial workloads under rust pressure.
Cold tolerance of field-collected soybean gall midge (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) under laboratory overwintering conditions. https://doi.org/10.1093/ee/nvag044
The soybean gall midge (Resseliella maxima) poses a expanding threat to Midwestern soybean production, but effective management depends heavily on accurately tracking when adults emerge from overwintering sites and move into developing crops. In this multi-state study, researchers evaluated sticky traps and soil emergence cages across key agricultural regions to map seasonal adult emergence patterns and spatial movement along field margins. The findings demonstrated that emergence cages placed along previous year's field borders provided the most reliable early-warning indicator for first-generation adult activity, whereas sticky traps effectively pinpointed peak adult movement into new soybean plantings. The authors conclude that integrating edge-based monitoring tools with regional emergence forecasting allows growers and agronomists to time field scouting and protective treatments with much higher precision, guarding against devastating early-season stem damage.
Molecular gut content analysis reveals in-field consumption of Resseliella maxima Gagné (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) by Pterostichus melanarius (Illiger) (Coleoptera: Carabidae). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41811975/
The soybean gall midge (Resseliella maxima) has emerged as a destructive pest across Midwestern soybean fields, but whether abundant ground beetles like Pterostichus melanarius actively hunt them under natural field conditions remained unverified. To investigate, researchers conducted molecular gut content analysis on ground beetles collected from Minnesota soybean fields over two growing seasons, testing their digestive tracts for soybean gall midge DNA and calculating how fast that genetic evidence degrades. The analysis confirmed that ground beetles routinely prey on soybean gall midges in the wild, with midge DNA detected in up to 10% of overall collected beetles and in up to 20% of beetles from specific high-density traps. Because midge DNA breaks down rapidly inside beetle guts—having a detection half-life of only 6.59 hours—the authors note that these field measurements likely underestimate actual predation rates. The study concludes that ground beetles provide valuable, density-dependent biological control against soybean gall midge in real-world crop environments, underscoring the importance of pest management practices that conserve beneficial soil-dwelling predators.
First Report of Red Crown Rot of Soybean Caused by Calonectria ilicicola in Minnesota. https://apsjournals.apsnet.org/doi/pdf/10.1094/PDIS-01-26-0234-PDN
Red crown rot, a damaging soilborne fungal disease caused by Calonectria ilicicola, has been officially confirmed in Minnesota for the first time after symptomatic plants were identified in a Rock County field in late 2025. Researchers diagnosed affected soybeans exhibiting characteristic root rot, reddish stem discoloration, and leaf interveinal necrosis, subsequently confirming the pathogen's identity using microscopic analysis, multi-gene DNA sequencing, and greenhouse pathogenicity trials. Located roughly 600 kilometers north of the nearest previously documented detection in northwestern Illinois, this discovery represents a major northern range expansion for the fungus, highlighting an emerging biological threat that Upper Midwest soybean producers must now actively monitor and manage.
Evaluation of soybean accessions for resistance to the Japanese beetle, 2024. https://doi.org/10.1093/amt/tsag071
As pest pressures and insecticide resistance patterns evolve across major growing regions, producers require objective, field-tested data to select the most reliable chemical options for protecting crop yields. In this trial, researchers evaluated the performance of various commercial foliar insecticides and application timings against soybean pest infestations in Minnesota field plots. By measuring post-treatment pest suppression alongside harvest yields, the study identified which active ingredients provided strong, sustained control compared to those offering reduced efficacy. The authors conclude that conducting regular field efficacy evaluations is essential for providing growers and agronomists with updated, evidence-based management guidelines—ensuring chemical applications effectively protect crop profitability while preventing unnecessary pesticide use.
Pesticide Impact on White Mold (Sclerotinia Stem Rot) and Soybean Yield. doi.org/10.31274/cpn-20191022-000
White mold (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum) remains one of the most destructive diseases affecting northern U.S. soybean production, but selecting an effective chemical management strategy requires balancing disease suppression against application costs. Synthesizing over 1,300 field plot data points collected across eight Midwestern states from 2017 to 2024, this multi-state Extension report evaluated the performance and economic return of commercial fungicide programs applied at standard timings or guided by predictive risk models. The researchers established that measurable yield losses begin at a 5% disease index, escalating to a 10% yield loss when disease severity reaches 15%. By coupling multi-site efficacy data with economic forecasting, the study provides producers with a data-driven framework to select fungicide treatments based on field risk levels, ensuring chemical inputs effectively safeguard soybean yield while maximizing net return on investment.
Soybean screening identifies resistant lines, reveals virulence variation, and genomic diversity among Minnesota Sclerotinia sclerotiorum isolates. https://doi.org/10.1094/PDIS-03-26-0637-RE
Sclerotinia stem rot (white mold), caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, continues to drive major soybean yield losses across the Upper Midwest. To advance host genetic resistance as a sustainable management tool, researchers screened 51 commercial cultivars and University of Minnesota breeding lines, uncovering a broad spectrum ranging from highly susceptible to highly resistant varieties. Evaluating a representative subset against eight local S. sclerotiorum isolates demonstrated consistent host-pathogen interaction patterns while shedding light on the regional virulence variation and genetic diversity of the fungus. By identifying resistant germplasm and establishing a practical variety-isolate screening framework, the study provides plant breeders with validated tools to accelerate the development of white-mold-resilient soybean varieties.
Suitability and effectiveness of marker-assisted selection in soybeans under Asian soybean rust pressure. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11032-026-01694-1
Breeding soybean varieties that withstand Asian soybean rust (ASR) without sacrificing yield is a persistent challenge, particularly when the underlying genetic traits explain only small fractions of overall plant performance. In this study, researchers evaluated whether targeted marker-assisted selection (MAS) focusing on key genetic markers could perform as effectively as complex, full-genome profiling for identifying superior soybean lines under rust pressure. By tracking yield and key growth traits across early and late plant generations, the team found that models focused on specific genetic markers on chromosomes 6 and 16 matched or exceeded genome-wide predictions—consistently identifying plants with higher seed yield and seed weight along with favorable maturity timing. The study concludes that breeders can effectively streamline their selection process by targeting these specific genetic regions, offering a faster and more cost-effective way to develop high-yielding soybean varieties resilient to Asian soybean rust.
Modeling the environment-related risk of frogeye leaf spot (Cercospora sojina) in soybean across the United States https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-46975-z
While frogeye leaf spot remains a top threat to soybean yields across the U.S., the widespread emergence of fungicide-resistant strains has made traditional, calendar-based spraying both economically risky and environmentally inefficient. By analyzing a vast dataset of environmental variables across multiple growing regions, this research developed and evaluated predictive models to identify the specific weather patterns that trigger disease outbreaks. The researchers found that sustained periods of high relative humidity (85% or greater) were the most powerful predictors of disease growth, whereas common metrics like rainfall intensity were surprisingly weak indicators of risk. The paper concludes that by adopting these data-driven predictive models, the industry can move toward a "smarter" management strategy—applying fungicides only when environmental conditions pose a verified threat, thereby preserving the effectiveness of chemical tools and improving farmer profitability.
Potential of Relay-Cropping Soybean (Fabales: Fabaceae) with a Pennycress (Brassicales: Brassicaceae) Cover Crop to Suppress Soybean Aphid (Hemiptera: Aphididae) Populations. https://doi.org/10.18474/JES25-12
Soybean aphids are a persistent threat that can significantly reduce yields, yet relying solely on chemical sprays can be costly and environmentally taxing. This study investigates 'relay-cropping' soybeans with a pennycress cover crop, as a cultural method to suppress aphid populations. The researchers found that this relay-cropping system naturally suppressed aphid numbers, suggesting that integrated farming practices can provide an effective, ecological alternative to reduce reliance on traditional pesticide use.
Genomic prediction of yield components in soybean under Asian soybean rust pressure for early-generation selection. https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.04.p251
Asian soybean rust is a devastating fungal disease that requires rapid breeding of resistant varieties to protect global harvests. This research applied genomic prediction models to select for yield-improving traits even under heavy disease pressure. The findings show that these computer-driven models can accurately identify high-performing soybean lines in early generations, allowing breeders to develop rust-resistant crops much faster and more efficiently than traditional methods allow.
Dicamba-based preemergence herbicide tank mixtures improved residual weed control in dicamba-resistant soybean. https://doi.org/10.3389/fagro.2025.1576547
As weeds increasingly develop resistance to common herbicides, farmers are struggling to keep their fields clean and productive. This research tested various tank mixtures of preemergence herbicides in dicamba-resistant soybeans to find more effective combinations. The study found that specific mixtures significantly improved 'residual control,' keeping weeds at bay for longer periods. The researchers conclude that using these strategic tank mixes is a vital component of a modern, multi-pronged approach to weed management.
The genome sequence and genomic diversity of soybean tentiform leafminer (Macrosaccus morrisella). https://doi.org/10.1093/g3journal/jkaf021
The soybean tentiform leafminer is an emerging pest that lives inside soybean leaves, making it difficult to control. This research provided the first genome sequencing and description of the pest's genetic diversity. This high-quality genetic data acts as a 'digital blueprint' for the insect, allowing scientists to understand how it spreads and evolves. These genomic resources are essential for developing future precision pest-control tools, such as targeted sprays or resistant crop varieties.
Evaluation of the toxicity of translaminar insecticides against the soybean tentiform leafminer (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), a potential new pest of soybean. https://doi.org/10.1093/jee/toae249
Because leafminer larvae hide inside the leaf tissue, standard insecticides that stay on the surface of the leaf are often ineffective. This study evaluated 'translaminar' insecticides, which are absorbed by the leaf and can kill pests hidden inside. The research found that several of these specialized chemicals are highly toxic to the leafminer, providing farmers with an effective new option for protecting their crops. The study concludes that these targeted insecticides are a necessary addition to the toolbox for managing this difficult-to-reach pest.
Understanding green stem in soybeans. https://doi.org/10.1002/cft2.70065
Green stem syndrome is a frustrating condition where soybean pods mature but the stems remain green and moist, causing significant problems for harvesting machinery. This comprehensive study aimed to uncover the physiological and environmental drivers behind this condition across different growing regions. The findings suggest that green stem is caused by a complex interaction of plant genetics and harvest timing. The research provides farmers with better insights into when to harvest and which varieties may be more prone to this harvesting headache.
Synopeas ruficoxum Buhl (Hymenoptera, Platygastridae) is a natural enemy of soybean gall midge, Resseliella maxima Gagné (Diptera, Cecidomyiidae). https://doi.org/10.3897/jhr.98.163211
The soybean gall midge is a relatively new and destructive pest without effective chemical control methods, leading researchers to look for alternative solutions such as biological control. This study identified a tiny parasitic wasp (Synopeas ruficoxum) that naturally preys on the midge in the field. By documenting this wasp's activity, the researchers have found a potential 'biological ally' that could help keep midge populations in check. The paper concludes that protecting and encouraging these natural enemies is a vital step toward sustainable, long-term midge management.
Predation behaviors of Pterostichus melanarius adults on larvae of the soybean gall midge, Resseliella maxima. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocontrol.2024.105679
Ground-dwelling beetles are often the unsung heroes of the farm, acting as natural predators for many pests that spend part of their lives in the soil. This research observed the predation behaviors of a common ground beetle on the larvae of the soybean gall midge. The study confirmed that these beetles are aggressive predators of the midge, suggesting that maintaining healthy soil environments that support these beetles can provide a free, natural layer of pest protection for soybean growers.
Reformulation of dicamba herbicide: Impacts on offsite transport and soybean damage. https://doi.org/10.1002/agj2.21630
Dicamba is a powerful weed-killer, but its tendency to 'drift' or move offsite and damage neighboring crops has caused significant conflict and loss. This study tested a reformulated version of the herbicide designed to reduce this offsite transport. The researchers measured how the new formula impacted soybean damage and found that while it showed improvements, offsite movement remains a challenge. The paper concludes that while better chemistry is helpful, strict application guidelines are still necessary to protect the surrounding agricultural landscape.
Injury to soybean seedlings from alfalfa weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) larvae. https://doi.org/10.22543/0090-0222.2503
While the alfalfa weevil is primarily known for attacking hay crops, it has recently been observed causing unexpected injury to young soybean seedlings. This study provides a detailed assessment of the injury these larvae cause to soybeans early in the growing season. The findings reveal that early-planted soybeans are particularly vulnerable, warning farmers that they should keep a close eye on their fields if they are located near alfalfa, as pests can sometimes cross over between different crops.
Soybean aphid management and perception of insecticide resistance by farmers. https://doi.org/10.1093/jipm/pmae020
As soybean aphids develop resistance to the most common insecticides, the standard methods for controlling them are becoming less reliable. This study surveyed farmers to understand how they perceive this resistance and how they manage their fields in response. The results showed a gap between farmer perceptions and actual resistance levels. The researchers conclude that a more science-based approach to insecticide use is necessary to preserve the effectiveness of these tools for the future.
Laboratory rearing methods for the soybean tentiform leafminer (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), a new pest of soybean. https://doi.org/10.22543/0090-0222.2477
In order to study and control new pests like the soybean tentiform leafminer, scientists first need a reliable, year-round supply of the insects for testing. This paper details the development of a successful laboratory 'rearing' method that allows researchers to grow and study the leafminer in a controlled environment. By establishing this protocol, the authors have made it possible for other scientists to conduct the detailed research needed to find new ways to stop this pest from damaging crops in the field.
Evaluating the inactivation of a surrogate ASFV-like algal virus in a pilot solvent extraction soybean processing facility. https://doi.org/10.3389/fanim.2025.1521492
Concerns about animal viruses entering the food chain through crop processing have led to a need for rigorous safety testing in industrial facilities. This study used a surrogate virus to test the safety of a pilot-scale soybean processing plant that uses
solvents to extract oil. The results confirmed that the standard processing methods are highly effective at inactivating the virus. However, product recontamination and environmental contamination are possible and need to be addressed in food safety plans.
A tritrophic plant-insect-pathogen system used to develop a closely linked Rag2 and Rsv1-h recombinant haplotype in double-resistant soybean germplasm. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12864-025-11686-8
Farmers often face multiple threats at once, such as insect pests and viral diseases, requiring plants that can defend themselves on several fronts. This study used a complex 'tritrophic' research system to develop a new type of soybean with combined resistance to both aphids and soybean mosaic virus. The researchers successfully created a 'double-resistant' germplasm that protects the plant from two major threats simultaneously. This study provides a blueprint for breeding more resilient crops that can handle the diverse stresses of the modern field.
Legume host range and soybean host plant resistance for soybean tentiform leafminer, Macrosaccus morrisella (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae). https://doi.org/10.1093/jee/toaf098
When a new pest like the soybean tentiform leafminer appears, scientists must quickly learn which plants it can live on and which soybeans can resist it. This study tested a wide range of legumes and soybean varieties to see which ones the leafminer preferred. The researchers identified several other host plants and found that some soybean varieties are naturally more resistant to the leafminer. This knowledge helps farmers understand which fields might be at risk and provides breeders with the genetic material needed to develop even more resistant crops.
Spatial and temporal dynamics of leaf injury from Macrosaccus morrisella in soybean. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cropro.2025.107337
Pests don't damage a field all at once; they move and spread in predictable patterns over time and space. This research tracked the spatial and temporal dynamics of leaf injury caused by the soybean tentiform leafminer throughout the growing season. By mapping how the damage spreads, the study provides a guide for when and where farmers should look for the pest. This information allows for more precise monitoring, helping growers catch infestations early before they lead to significant crop loss.
Evaluation of insecticides for management of soybean aphid, 2025. https://doi.org/10.1093/amt/tsaf146
As new insecticide products enter the market and old ones lose effectiveness, farmers need annual updates on the best chemicals for aphid control. This report provides the results of the 2025 field evaluations for a wide range of aphid insecticides. The researchers identified which products currently provide the best 'bang for the buck' and which are starting to fail. These annual trials are a critical resource for ensuring that farmers are using the most effective and up-to-date tools for protecting their soybean yields.
Impact of foliar insecticides on soybean aphid, 2024 https://doi.org/10.1093/amt/tsaf015
Foliar insecticides remain a primary tool for managing sudden aphid outbreaks, but their real-world effectiveness needs constant validation. This study detailed the impact of various foliar sprays on soybean aphid populations during the 2024 growing season. The findings quantify exactly how much each product reduced pest numbers, providing a clear performance report for each chemical. The study concludes that while several effective options remain, careful selection is key to achieving the best possible control under current field conditions.
Economic-threshold-based classification of soybean aphid, Aphis glycines, infestations in commercial soybean fields using Sentinel-2 satellite data. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cropro.2023.106557
Scouting large soybean fields for tiny aphids is a time-consuming and often inaccurate task for farmers and agronomists. This innovative study tested the use of Sentinel-2 satellite data to detect and classify aphid infestations from space based on economic thresholds. The researchers found that satellite imagery could effectively identify 'hot spots' of infestation, offering a potential remote-scouting tool. The paper concludes that satellite technology could revolutionize how we monitor pests, making scouting faster, cheaper, and more accurate over large areas.
Immature development and adult longevity of the soybean tentiform leafminer (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae). https://doi.org/10.1093/ee/nvae059
To accurately predict when a pest will reach peak populations, scientists must first understand exactly how fast it grows and how long it lives. This study provides the first detailed look at the life cycle of the soybean tentiform leafminer, from egg to adult. The researchers defined the optimal temperatures and timing for the insect's development, providing the basic biology needed to build predictive models. This foundational knowledge is essential for timing management actions to hit the pest at its most vulnerable stage.
Genome and GWAS analyses for soybean cyst nematode resistance in USDA world-wide common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) germplasm. https://doi.org/10.1094/PDIS-06-25-1327-RE https://doi.org/10.1094/PDIS-09-19-1916-RE
While the soybean cyst nematode (SCN) remains the costliest pest in soybean production, its ability to eventually "break" the genetic resistance used to control it makes it a moving target for growers. To understand this adaptation, researchers conducted two long-term field studies in Minnesota spanning up to 20 years, comparing how continuous planting of the same resistant varieties versus rotating them affects nematode populations and virulence. The findings reveal that while monoculture of common resistance sources like PI 88788 or Peking rapidly "trains" the nematodes to overcome those specific defenses, the less common PI 437654 variety remains an impenetrable shield that keeps pest numbers low without triggering new adaptation on PI 437654. However, PI 437654 derived soybean selected SCN that increased nematode ability to overcome resistance from PI 88788 and Peking. Interestingly, planting a non-resistant "susceptible" variety occasionally actually reduced the nematode's ability to attack Peking, suggesting that these specialized pests face a "fitness cost" that makes them less competitive when their specific host is absent. The study concludes that to preserve these critical genetic tools and maintain long-term soil productivity, the industry must shift away from single-source monoculture and instead adopt a strategic rotation of different resistance types to keep nematode populations from adapting.
Stability of a surrogate African swine fever-like algal virus in corn- and soybean-based feed ingredients during extended storage and in vitro digestion processes. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2024.1498977
Ensuring the safety of animal feed is a major challenge, especially when dealing with viruses that can survive for long periods in dry ingredients. This research tracked the stability of a surrogate virus in corn and soybean-based feed throughout extended storage and even through the digestion process of the gastrointestinal tract of pigs. The findings show that the virus is remarkably stable, highlighting a potential risk for disease spread through the feed chain. The study emphasizes that strict biosecurity and storage protocols are necessary to prevent contaminated feed from spreading viruses to livestock.
A system approach for waterhemp ( Amaranthus tuberculatus ) management in soybean–sugar beet rotation. doi:10.1017/wet.2025.10058
Waterhemp is an aggressive weed that has developed resistance to multiple herbicides, making it a nightmare for farmers in crop rotations. This study proposed a 'system approach' for managing waterhemp in a soybean and sugar beet rotation over several years. The results showed that a combination of different chemicals and cultivation techniques was necessary to keep the weed in check. The researchers conclude that long-term, strategic planning‚ rather than a year-to-year approach‚ is the only way to successfully manage resistant weeds in complex crop systems.
Predation of Pterostichus melanarius on cocoons of soybean gall midge, Resseliella maxima. Biocontrol (Dordrecht). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10526-026-10383-z
While many pest control studies focus on the adult insects, attacking the pest during its immobile 'cocoon' stage in the soil can be highly effective. This study examined how a common ground beetle preys on the cocoons of the soybean gall midge buried in the dirt. The researchers found that these beetles are significant predators that can reduce the number of midges that emerge in the spring. This finding highlights the importance of maintaining healthy soil biodiversity, as it provides a natural and free way to reduce pest pressure before the season even begins.
Impact of larval and cocoon burial depth on emergence of adult soybean gall midge (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae). https://doi.org/10.1093/jisesa/ieag024
Changing how the soil is managed through tillage can have a direct impact on the survival of pests that spend the winter underground. This study tested how the burial depth of soybean gall midge larvae and cocoons affects the number of adults that eventually emerge from the soil. The research found that deeper burial, common in some types of tillage, significantly reduced the pest's survival rate. The paper suggests that strategic soil management can be a powerful 'cultural' control tool to complement chemical and biological pest management.
Comparative insights into soybean and other oilseed crops’ defense mechanisms against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2025.1616824
Sclerotinia stem rot is a broad-spectrum disease that attacks not just soybeans, but many other oilseed crops like canola and sunflowers. This study compared the internal defense mechanisms of these different plants to find common ways they fight off the fungus. The researchers discovered both shared and unique defense strategies, providing a more holistic understanding of plant-pathogen interactions. These comparative insights are invaluable for breeders looking to develop broad, multi-crop resistance strategies against this widespread and destructive fungus.
A rapid loop-mediated isothermal amplification assay for the detection of root rot in soybean caused by Phytophthora sojae. https://doi.org/10.1039/D5AY00924C
Current methods for diagnosing root rot in the field are often slow, requiring samples to be sent to a lab while the disease continues to spread. This study developed a 'rapid loop-mediated isothermal amplification' (LAMP) assa (a fast DNA test) that can detect Phytophthora sojae infection in plants in minutes. The researchers found that this assay is highly accurate and specific and can be used directly on the farm without specialized equipment. The study concludes that this rapid detection tool allows farmers to diagnose Phytophthora root rot of soybeans quickly, thus enabling effective management tactics to be used.