Welcome to the Iowa State University Soybean Entomology Website. Drs. Matt O'Neal and Erin Hodgson jointly manage this lab to learn more about insect ecology, biology and integrated pest management.
We are exploring how small patches of native, perennial vegetation (i.e., prairie) can increase the abundance and diversity of pollinators within corn and soybean. We observed honey bee colonies in Iowa lose weight beginning in August, when clover and soybean cease blooming. When colonies had access to a prairie from August to October, they were buffered from this late season decline. Read more about Using prairies to reduce interacting stressors on pollinator health
Today, Matt and Erin discuss recent soybean pest activity. Of special note, soybean aphids can be more easily found in northern Iowa and scouting fields is highly recommended. Also, green cloverworm is making a special appearance in a few fields. Matt wraps up the podcast by sharing a research update that involves collecting pollen from honey bees to see where they are feeding.
“Apres moi, le deluge” is legendary quote from King Louis XV of France. Allegedly he said this with regard to what would happen to France after his death; After me, the flood. 15 years after a reign that saw the loss of wars, territory etc., the French Revolution broke out.
Today on the soybean aphid podcast, we turn this title around (after the rains, us) to discuss the consequences of the June rains that have dropped as much as 6 inches in a 72 hour period. Unlike the terrible decisions of King Louis, these rains can have a benefit to farms by limiting the impact of some pests, especially those in the soil. However, the rains have made it difficult to get into fields for herbicide applications.
We discuss the rain, its impact on pests, and the upcoming Pollinator Festival at Rieman Gardens in Ames this Saturday June, 20.
Also, help us come up with a new name for out podcast. Send your suggestions to Matt at oneal at iastate.edu and/or Erin at ewh at iastate.edu.
Today, Matt and Erin talk about potential soybean seedling pests, including bean leaf beetle, slugs and black cutworm. They also shared some details about Pollinator Fest, a special event to promote pollinators on June 20. Find out more here: http://www.reimangardens.com/event/pollinator-fest/.
