Bean seed flies (Delia platura) are small flies whose larvae feed on germinating soybean seeds, causing seedling injury and reduced stand establishment. Infestations can lead to patchy emergence and yield losses in soybean fields.

Control bean seed fly in soybean

The beneficial nematode Steinernema feltiae, (Capirel), effectively controls bean seed fly. When applied, Steinernema feltiae infects the larvae of the bean seed fly. The nematodes penetrate the larvae and release symbiotic bacteria into their body cavity. These bacteria multiply rapidly, causing septicemia and death of the bean seed fly larvae within a few days. Steinernema feltiae nematodes actively seek out their insect hosts in the soil, making them effective biocontrol agents against pests like the bean seed fly. This biological control method offers an environmentally friendly and sustainable approach to managing bean seed fly populations in agricultural settings.

Whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci) are small, winged insects that feed on sap from soybean leaves, causing yellowing, wilting, and reduced plant vigor. They also excrete honeydew, promoting the growth of sooty mold and reducing photosynthesis.

Various species of stink bugs, including the Southern green stink bug (Nezara viridula) and brown stink bug (Euschistus servus), feed on soybean pods, seeds, and developing beans. Their feeding can cause seed damage, shriveled beans, and reduced yield quality.

Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) adults feed on soybean leaves, resulting in skeletonized foliage and reduced plant vigor. Larvae feed on soybean roots, increasing susceptibility to drought and other stresses.

Control Japanese beetle in soybean

The beneficial nematode Steinernema feltiae (Capirel) serves as a biological control agent against Japanese beetles (Popillia japonica) in soybean crops. Steinernema feltiae is an entomopathogenic nematode that targets soil-dwelling pests like Japanese beetles during their larval stage. When applied, Steinernema feltiae actively seeks out Japanese beetle larvae. Once in contact, the nematodes penetrate the larvae and release symbiotic bacteria into their bodies. These bacteria rapidly multiply, causing septicemia and eventual death of the Japanese beetle larvae within a few days. By effectively reducing the population of Japanese beetle larvae, Capirel helps to minimize damage to soybean roots and foliage caused by these pests. This biological control method offers an environmentally friendly and sustainable approach to managing Japanese beetle populations in soybean fields, without the need for chemical pesticides.

Corn earworm (Helicoverpa zea) larvae occasionally feed on soybean pods, causing damage and reducing seed quality. Their presence can lead to economic losses, particularly in late-planted or late-maturing soybean fields.

Rhizoctonia (Rhizoctonia solani, now referred to as Thanatephorus cucumeris) is a soilborne fungal pathogen that can cause various diseases in soybean crops. One of the most common diseases associated with Rhizoctonia is root rot, where the fungus infects the roots of soybean plants, causing them to become discolored, necrotic, and decayed. As a result, infected plants may exhibit stunted growth, wilting, and reduced vigor. In severe cases, Rhizoctonia infection can lead to stand reductions and significant yield losses. Additionally, Rhizoctonia can also cause stem canker, where lesions develop on the stems of soybean plants, hindering nutrient transport and weakening the plant structure.

Control Rhizoctonia in soybean

The beneficial fungus Trichoderma harzianum T-22 (Trianum-P, Trianum-G) employs diverse tactics to control Rhizoctonia in soybean crops. Initially, it competes effectively for space on the root surface, outstripping other fungi and hindering their establishment. Additionally, Trianum competes for nutrients, stripping Rhizoctonia pathogens of vital resources essential for their growth. Furthermore, it grows around the mycelia of Rhizoctonia, causing the cells to break down and eventually demise.

Moreover, Trianum strengthens the plant’s root system, fostering the growth of additional root hairs to enhance water and nutrient absorption. This results in a more robust crop with enhanced yields, especially in challenging growing conditions. Trianum also improves the plant's defense mechanisms, such as induced systemic resistance (ISR), while improving the availability of essential nutrients like manganese and iron.

Pythium is another common soilborne pathogen that poses a threat to soybean crops, particularly during early growth stages. Pythium infection can result in damping-off, where seedlings emerge from the soil but quickly collapse and die due to rotting of the seed or young roots. This disease is often favored by cool, wet conditions, making it prevalent in early spring or in fields with poor drainage. Pythium can also cause root rot in older soybean plants, leading to reduced nutrient uptake and impaired water absorption. Symptoms of Pythium infection include discolored and water-soaked roots, yellowing of foliage, and overall poor plant health.

Control Pythium in soybean

The beneficial fungus Trichoderma harzianum T-22 (Trianum-P, Trianum-G) controls Pythium in apple crops by using several defense mechanisms. Initially, it competes for space on the root surface, surpassing other fungi and impeding their establishment. Additionally, Trianum competes for nutrients, depriving Pythium pathogens of vital resources necessary for their development.

Furthermore, it grows around the mycelia of Pythium, causing the cells to break down and eventually demise. Moreover, Trianum strengthens the plant by enhancing the root system, promoting the growth of additional root hairs to enhance water and nutrient absorption. This results in a more resilient crop with improved yields, especially in challenging growing conditions. Trianum also fortifies the plant's defense mechanisms, including induced systemic resistance (ISR), while enhancing the availability of essential nutrients such as manganese and iron.