Scientists Discover Gene Controlling Resistance to Cyst Nematode in Soybeans The cyst nematode is the most costly pest that impacts soybean yields in the United States. The minute worm-like organism reduces yields and is credited with reducing U.S. farmer income from soybeans by at least $1 billion annually. Because cyst nematode eggs hatch over a decade, it is not possible to eradicate the pest by rotations with other crops.Scientists at several Midwestern universities have identified a gene or a combination of genes in soybeans that creates a resistance to the cyst nematode. The genes cause the soybean plant to produce an enzyme that either starves nematodes or creates a natural pesticide that kills them. Identification of the genes sh...

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