Speed Scouting
Resources Publications 5/11/07 - Field Validation of Speed Scouting for Soybean Aphid |
This page is dedicated to improving sampling efficiency for the soybean aphid.
HOW MANY SAMPLES ARE NEEDED TO MAKE A TREATMENT DECISION?
1. After collecting data from commercial soybean in southern and central Minnesota, entomologists at the University of Minnesota developed a binomial sampling plan, called Speed Scouting for Soybean Aphid. We recommend using this sampling plan through the pod fill stage.
2. A ‘binomial’ plan usually refers to two choices; sometimes it means a presence/absence count or a pre-set cut-off number where counting can be stopped.
3. A binomial sampling plan can improve the cost (in time) of sampling because every insect does not need to be counted.
4. The binomial sampling cut-off point is 40 aphids per plant. If a plant has less than 40 aphids, consider it non-infested; however if the plant has 40 or more aphids (remember, counting additional aphids is not necessary after 40), consider the plant infested.
5. Based on the Speed Scouting sampling plan, three treatment decisions
are possible
1. Do not treat that field, 2. Treat that field, and 3. Resample that field
in 3-4 days
6. Are you interested in trying Speed Scouting technique? We prepared a printable worksheet with directions you can use to make a treatment decision for soybean aphid.
a. Blank worksheet and directions
b. Still confused? We filled out worksheets with the 3 possible decisions
i. Field 1: Do not treat decision
ii. Field 2: Treat decision
iii. Field 3: Resample that field decision
c. Here are some additional FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
Please contact us if you have further questions on how to use this new sampling plan. We would also appreciate your comments on how you liked/disliked using the overall plan, and any yield data you may have generated.
Developed by Erin Hodgson, 5/2004
University of Minnesota Contact: David Ragsdale - U of M Entomology Department - 612.624.6771 - ragsd001@umn.edu
Frequently asked questions (FAQ’s) about Speed Sampling for soybean aphid?
What is the purpose of Speed Sampling for soybean aphid?
The purpose of this proposed sampling plan is to improve efficiency when making management decisions for soybean aphid. Speed sampling does not require counting every aphid on aplant, and treatment decisions can be made quickly - especially at very high or very low aphid densities.
How did we collect this data?
Since 2001, ten commercial soybean fields (all with 30” row spacing) in the SE quarter of MN were sampled very intensively. Fields were sampled like a checker board, where all areas of the field were sampled 1-2 times per week. All of the fields were colonized early (vegetative growth) by soybean aphid. Fields were sampled with whole plant counts from the early vegetative stage through seed set. In all, almost 90 data sets were collected and used as a base to create this sampling plan. Computer software analysis was then able to tell us approximately how many samples were needed to make correct treat and no-treat decisions based on the proportion of infested plants. All data collection and computer analysis was done by Erin Hodgson, a Ph.D. student in Entomology at the U of M.
Is this the new economic threshold for soybean aphid?
No, this is NOT a new economic threshold!!! The current recommended economic threshold for soybean aphid is 250 aphids/plant through pod set for most Midwestern soybean. This sampling plan uses the % infested plants (at least 40 aphids on a plant is considered infested) as an indicator of damaging soybean aphid populations.
Why stop counting after 40 aphids per plant?
Using 40 aphids is a cut-off point where you can stop counting and consider the plant infested. There is a statistical relationship between the economic threshold (250 aphids per plant) and the proportion of plants that are infested (we are using 40 aphids per plant). For example: 0-39 aphids on a plant = not infested, and 40 or more aphids on a plant = infested.
Where and when can you use this sampling plan?
This sampling plan was created and intended for use for commercial soybeans in central and southern MN. Because data was not collected past seed set, we are recommending using this plan up to pod set on fields with 30” rows.
When can you start using this sampling plan?
For the majority of soybean grown in the lower half of MN, we recommend starting to scout in the early vegetative stages (mid to late June). Depending on weather and other growing conditions favorable for aphid growth, it may require 2-3 visits per field each year to determine soybean aphid densities and make treatment decisions.
Do you need to resample that field and if so, when should you return?
Regardless of the treatment decision, the field should be resampled in 7-10 days through pod set to ensure soybean aphid populations are not at damaging levels. A treated field can have new aphids move into the field and it is important to check as often as time permits.
Any other recommendations? Where can you get more information about Minnesota soybean production?
As with any new pest management program, it is always a good idea to leave check strips to compare your treatment decision.
For questions in Minnesota, contact:
David Ragsdale
U of M Entomology Department
612.624.6771
ragsd001@umn.eduVisit www.soybeans.umn.edu for other updated information.
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URL: http://www.soybeans.umn.edu/crop/insects/aphid/aphid_sampling.htm
Last Modified
6/12/07 9:34 AM
By Sarah Jameson-Jones
Web Designer/Developer
james039@umn.edu