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Withered and curled leaves, the result of extensive aphid feeding.
Susceptible plants (upper left) amidst resistant ones.Overview: The soybean aphid is native to Asia. The aphid was discovered in Wisconsin in 2000 and spread rapidly causing severe yield losses. The aphid taps into the plant's veins and sucks sap resulting in reduced photosynthesis and the transmission of viral diseases.
Research: Research is being conducted to identify aphid resistant genes.
Symptoms: Aphids will be visible on plant leaves and stems, causing stunted growth, poor leaf development, or chlorosis.
Causal Organisms: Aphis glycines
Disease Cycle: Aphids overwinter on buckthorn, an understory shrub, and appear on soybeans in early June. They quickly begin parthenogenetic reproduction and can double in population every two to three days. Some females respond to overcrowding by developing wings and migrating to other areas. At the end of the summer winged aphids leave fields to return to wintering hosts.
Management: Plant resistant varieties or spray with insecticides. Removing buckthorn, the wintering host, can also reduce aphid populations.
Researchers: At the Laboratory for Soybean Research, Curt Hill is conducting research on soybean aphid.
