Source: NCSU COOPERATIVE EXTENSION, 4/15/22


Soybean cyst nematode (SCN, Heterodera glycines) is a microscopic worm that feeds on the roots of soybean plants. This feeding can disrupt the normal function of the roots, causing poor plant growth and ultimately reducing yields. Once established in a field, SCN can impact yields for years if not actively managed. Therefore, preventing the establishment of SCN into a field is critical. However, if SCN is already present in a field, how can we stop this nematode from worming into profits?

One key point about SCN is that some field populations of the nematode have developed ability to overcome certain SCN-resistant soybean varieties, while other populations cannot. Put another way, SCN-resistant soybean varieties may still experience yield loss due to SCN depending on the biological profile of the unique SCN population in the field.

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