Pyrethroid Resistant Soybean Aphids Next Door

 

 

In 2015, insecticide failures for soybean aphid management were first reported in Minnesota. Pyrethroids were found to be ineffective at reducing soybean aphids in some areas. Although confirmation of these populations was not initially found in 2016, additional cases of performance issues with pyrethroid applications were recently observed in Minnesota. There are several factors that may have contributed to soybean aphid resistance to pyrethroid insecticides. One of these factors could be using the same class of insecticides for multiple years, or for multiple applications within a year. In addition, reduced rate applications of insecticides may also lead to resistance. Ultimately, it is important to remember that insecticides should only be used when thresholds are exceeded and yield loss is imminent.

 

 

Researchers at the University of Minnesota also provide alternative explanations for insecticide failure other than pest resistance to the management strategy. These include misapplication of the insecticide, unfavorable weather, and the eventual recolonization of the pest insect.