Do aphid-resistant soybeans need insecticides for maximum yields?

Abstract

<p>Soybean aphid, <strong><em>Aphis glycines</em></strong> Matsumura (Hemiptera: Aphididae), was first identified in the U.S. in the state of Wisconsin in 2000 and rapidly spread through the north central region of the US. The pest can reduce soybean yield by diminishing photosynthesis rates and/or by inducing premature senescence. Both effects reduce seed yield and seed quality. Since its introduction in North America, insecticides have been the primary management tool used by growers when outbreaks occur, which are frequent despite the impact of predators commonly found in North American soybean fields. Although predatory insects can limit soybean aphid population growth, their impact is nevertheless limited in landscapes dominated by field crops. In China, parasitoids are important for aphid control in soybean fields, however, they are largely missing in the natural enemy community of North America. Efforts to release exotic parasitoids into North America have begun.</p>