Soybean cyst nematode (Heterodera glycines): an overview of the situation in Quebec (2013-2015)

The soybean cyst nematode (SCN), Heterodera glycines, is a plant parasite that causes considerable yield loss in soybean crop. It was detected for the first time in Quebec in 2013. Here, we present the results of a survey aimed at identifying the regions affected by this pest and the density of its populations in Quebec. Over the last 3 years (2013-2015), SCN was detected in 54 samples (32% of fields tested) from the regions that produce soybean in Quebec. However, population density was very low, barely reaching the point of detection. Among the tested regions, the Eastern Townships had the highest proportion of fields that tested positive (63%). Surprisingly, this proportion was only 7% in Monteregie-Ouest, the centre of soybean production in Quebec, where SCN was first detected. Overall, the quality of the cysts collected was poor and the number of eggs was very low. Even if its populations are still low, SCN is present in Quebec and will not be eradicated. Therefore, different measures should be enforced to limit the spread and population growth of this important pest.