Soybean Aphid and Virus Transmission

Since soybean aphids (Aphis glycines Matsamura) were first reported in Wisconsin in 2000, these insects have become a common sight in many soybean fields. Many growers report finding tens of thousands of aphids colonizing on a single plant. Not much is known about the aphids ’ biology, persistence or effect on soybean health and productivity. Along with the direct damage apparently done by the feeding aphid, concerns about the possibility of virus transmission to soybeans also concern researchers and growers. In response to this new threat to profitable soybean production, research teams were quickly assembled in several North Central States to determine both short- and long-term solutions to the soybean aphid and associated viruses