Evaluating Soybean Cyst Nematode ( <i>Heterodera glycines</i> ) Reproduction on Ontario-adapted Dry Bean ( <i>Phaseolus vulgaris</i> L.) to Improve Management Strategies

Soybean cyst nematode (Heterodera glycines, SCN) is a damaging soil-borne nematode pest that infects soybean roots. SCN has been extensively studied on soybeans, where genetic resistance is the main management strategy. Dry beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are an alternative host for SCN, and overlap with soybean production areas, leading to concerns about bean production. The objective of this study was to evaluate SCN reproduction on Ontario-adapted dry bean cultivars across navy, black, kidney, and cranberry market classes using three SCN populations (one HG 0- and two HG 2- (from Ontario and Illinois)). Reproduction was measured as a Female Index (FI), calculated relative to the susceptible soybean cultivar Williams 82. All cultivars tested supported SCN developed . Andean (large-seeded) cultivars, comprised of kidney and cranberry beans, supported the highest reproduction, with many cultivars considered susceptible to SCN (FI &gt;60). Mesoamerican (small-seeded), comprised primarily of black and navy bean cultivars, often had lower reproduction. Reproduction was lower on all cultivars when challenged with HG 2- populations compared to the HG 0- population. The SCN reproduction varied within the small-seeded cultivars, suggesting possible population specific interactions. None of the cultivars tested were considered resistant (FI&lt;10). However, among navy beans, genetically similar cultivars Rexeter, OAC Rex, and ExRico23 had the lowest reproduction. This research highlights the range of SCN reproduction across Ontario adapted dry beans when inoculated with different SCN pathotypes. Within Ontario dry bean production SCN is a potential threat, and further research is needed in the development of SCN resistant dry beans.