As a widely cultivated crop, soybean has become an essential food source for both animals and humans. The soybean crop is vulnerable to attacks by pests and diseases that can cause massive losses if not adequately controlled. One of the pests that can pose a significant threat to soybean production is the stem fly. This article discusses control measures for stem fly attacks in soybean crop.
Stem fly (Melanagromyza sojae) is a small dark-colored insect that is known to cause considerable damage to soybean crops. The female stem fly lays eggs on the stem of the soybean plant, and the larvae feed on the pith of the stem, leading to the wilting and eventual death of the plant.
To control stem fly infestation in soybean crop, various measures can be adopted. They include:
1. Cultural practices
Cultural practices such as crop rotation, intercropping, and maintaining proper soil fertility can help reduce stem fly infestation. Crop rotation helps to reduce the population of stem flies in the soil by preventing the buildup of the pest in the field. Planting soybean in a field that has been left fallow for a while can help significantly.
Intercropping with other crops like maize, sorghum, or millet can make it difficult for the stem fly to lay eggs on soybean plants, hence reducing the pest’s population. Proper soil fertility helps to keep soybean plants healthy and strong, making them less susceptible to stem fly infestation.
2. Chemical control
Chemical control measures such as insecticides can be adopted to control stem fly infestation. Insecticides such as cypermethrin and deltamethrin can be sprayed on the soybean plants to kill the stem fly larvae.
However, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when using insecticides, such as the rate and timing of application. Also, seek the advice of a qualified agricultural extension officer to ensure that the product you are using is approved for use on soybean crops.
3. Biological control
Biological control measures can also be adopted to control stem fly infestation. This involves the use of natural enemies such as parasitoids, predators, and pathogens to control the pest.
One of the well-known biological control agents used in stem fly management is the parasitoid Opius sojaensis. Parasitoids are insects that lay their eggs on the stem fly larvae. The parasitoid eggs then hatch and feed on the stem fly larvae, eventually killing them.
In conclusion, stem fly infestation can cause significant damage to soybean crops, resulting in economic losses to farmers. The control measures discussed above can help reduce stem fly infestation in soybean crops. Hence, farmers should employ a combination of biological, cultural, and chemical control measures to effectively manage stem fly infestation in their soybean fields.