DISEASES OF SOYBEAN - SOYBEAN CYST NEMATODE

The soybean cyst nematode is a soil-borne, microscopic worm that infects soybean roots. Plant pathogenic nematodes can be distinguished from other non-pathogenic species (extremely common in soil) because they possess a specialized tooth-like structure called a stylet (see arrow in photo). The nematode uses its stylet to puncture and feed upon root tissue.