Soybean Cyst Nematode Management Is Improved by Combining Native and Transgenic Resistance

Field trials were conducted to assess the benefit of combining a transgenic soybean cyst nematode (SCN) resistance trait, Cry14Ab-1 expressed by the event GMB151, with the native resistance allele rhg1b from PI 88788. The GMB151 event and rhg1b were crossed into common genetic backgrounds and segregated out to create four genetically related lines within each background. The lines created contained both native and transgenic resistance (rhg1b + GMB151), only native resistance (rhg1b alone), only transgenic resistance (GMB151 alone), or neither resistance type (susceptible). The benefit of GMB151 and rhg1b for SCN management was evaluated by measuring SCN control and yield protection. Soybean cyst nematode control was assessed by counting the number of females and cysts on roots early in the season and measuring the change in SCN egg population density over the entire season. The GMB151 transgenic event and the native resistance allele rhg1b both reduced early season SCN reproduction and contributed to significantly higher soybean yield. Compared to susceptible lines, the rhg1b allele improved yield by 33%, while GMB151 improved yield by 13%. Combining the GMB151 event and rhg1b allele resulted in greater SCN control and yield improvement than either provided alone. The combination of GMB151 and rhg1b reduced season-long SCN reproduction by 50% and resulted in 44% greater yield than the susceptible lines. Soybean cyst nematode virulence to rhg1b continues to increase due to the continuous planting of PI 88788-derived resistant cultivars. Pyramiding GMB151 with rhg1b provides a new management option to improve SCN control and soybean yield.