Insect Resistant Genes in Soybean

Soybeans in Georgia are infested by many native insect pests such as soybean loopers, velvetbean caterpillars, and stink bugs. Also, new invasive insects such as kudzu bugs are now threatening soybean production in Georgia. Collaborative research between the Departments of Entomology and Crop and Soil Sciences was conducted to evaluate resistance to kudzu bugs and native pests in soybean. The research team includes a soybean breeder, a molecular biologist, and an entomologist. Numerous Asian soybean lines were tested for resistance to kudzu bugs and defoliator pests. Soybean breeding efforts have resulted in the identification of resistance native pests like soybean looper and for invasive pests such as the kudzu bug. Using such cultivars could increase profits for farmers, while resulting in reduced need for pesticides in the environment.