Evaluation of Resistance in Soybean Varieties to Rotylenchulus reniformis in Louisiana Fields

The reniform nematode (Rotylenchulus reniformis) is one of the most problematic nematodes affecting soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) in Louisiana. Although reniform nematode-resistant soybean varieties have been identified in previous studies, the response of soybean varieties grown in Louisiana remains unclear. This study evaluated reniform nematode population development and yield using a series of field trials. It focused on commonly planted soybean varieties, as well as University of Missouri varieties with reported resistance to the reniform nematode. Field trials were conducted in 2022 and 2023 at two locations in Louisiana. The resistant soybean varieties consistently suppressed reniform nematode soil population densities, achieving population reductions of 73% in 2022 and 72% in 2023, relative to the commercially planted soybean varieties. Resistant soybean varieties generally achieved higher yields than the commercial soybean varieties. This trend was consistent across the field trials conducted over both years. Overall, this study has demonstrated that resistant soybean varieties can be an effective tool in reducing reniform nematode populations in infested fields and often achieve higher yields compared to the currently grown soybean varieties in Louisiana.