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Entomologists at the LSU AgCenter are waging war on several fronts to protect soybean plants from insect pests.
Dawson Kerns, the newest investigator on the mission, is leading the charge with various projects aimed at controlling stink bugs and protecting vital Louisiana crops.
With soybeans being a critical part of Louisiana infrastructure, Kerns emphasizes the dual benefits of his work and research.
“A lot of it is going to come in terms of economic benefits for growers,” Kerns said. “By determining the optimal timing for insecticide applications, we can reduce the amount needed, which not only saves money but also benefits the environment.”
Keeping production and growing costs low is critical in this billion-dollar industry. One key project examines the rain-fastness of insecticides. “We're looking at several different insecticides to understand which work better under varying conditions,” Kerns said.
This research is crucial to crop retention, as some insecticides tend to lose effectiveness after rain, impacting their ability to control pests like the redbanded stink bug.
He stressed that insecticide use should be limited to when pest populations reach economically damaging levels.
Louisiana, in particular, faces significant challenges from redbanded stink bugs.
“The state as a whole is the most heavily impacted by this pest,” Kerns said.
He also discussed their overwintering habits, which influence pest pressure in the growing season and advises farmers to follow recommended economic thresholds and rotate insecticides to prevent resistance. “That's the best way to manage these pests right now,” he said.
Kerns is optimistic about the future and this year’s pest population.
“So far, we haven't seen a lot of redbanded stink bugs this year, so it might be a light year for them.”
The results of his research extend far beyond farmers. By reducing the need for insecticides and improving pest management, the work of LSU AgCenter entomologists helps ensure a stable supply of soybeans, impacting everything from food prices to the availability of soybean products for everyday consumers.
Top: Redbanded stink bug eggs and juveniles are seen on the underside of a soybean pod in northeast Louisiana. Monitoring egg clusters helps in the timely application of pest control measures. Bottom left: Juvenile redbanded stink bugs and eggs gather on a soybean leaf. Early detection and management are crucial to preventing crop damage. Bottom right: An adult redbanded stink bug rests on a soybean leaf. These insects are a significant threat to soybean crops due to their feeding habits. Photos provided by Dawson Kerns
