Fertilizer as a defense tool against nematodes in soybeans

Nematodes are among the main limiting factors for soybean productivity in Brazil, with annual losses estimated at approximately R$16 billion. Among the nematodes that cause the greatest damage are root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne javanica e M. unexplained) and root lesions (Pratylenchus brachyurus). The control of these nematodes is difficult, mainly, due to their wide geographic distribution and host range, which makes it difficult to choose materials for crop rotation. Therefore, in recent years, interest in alternative management methods has grown. Research carried out over the last few years in partnership with research institutions has shown that the Pack Seed product has potential for managing nematodes, by activating defense mechanisms in the plant, which improve the lignification of the cell wall, reducing penetration and reproduction. . Pack Seed is a complex mixture of compounds of different biochemical and biodegradable nature registered for treating soybean, corn, wheat and bean seeds. It is a differentiated product, as in addition to the traditional Co and Mo, it provides macro and micronutrients, rooting agents and amino acids. It is a complete formulation for seed treatment, and a promising alternative in the management of nematodes, applied alone or associated with other products. As all control methods have limitations, research is necessary to form integrated management, such as the study of plant nutrition, given that knowledge of the mode of action of each product can explain whether they act alone or in synergy, optimizing the control of nematodes in plants. Therefore, given the scarcity of alternatives for controlling nematodes in soybeans, research is needed to evaluate new technologies.

In view of this, work was carried out in partnership with the ABC Foundation to verify the efficiency of Pack Seed, via seed treatment at a dose of 3ml/kg, in the management of Meloidogyne javanica in soybean cultivation.

The methodology used to evaluate treatments was by counting the nematode population M. javanica in soybean roots and also its effect on productivity.

Considering the collection carried out at stage R2 (Figure 1), the treatment with Pack Seed showed a significant reduction in the number of specimens of M. javanica in 10g of root in relation to the control. This effect can be attributed to the fact that the product activates plant defense mechanisms, such as increasing the synthesis of secondary metabolites, such as peroxidase and phenylalanine-ammonium-lyase enzymes, mainly related to the stiffening of the cell wall, which makes it difficult nematode penetration, movement and feeding site. In relation to soybean productivity (Figure 2), there was an increase of 5,22 more bags per hectare, in relation to the control, a natural response of the crop due to better nutrition and health, provided by Pack Seed.

Pack Seed, in addition to nourishing plants with the main macro and micronutrients, rooting agents and amino acids for maximum expression of their productive potential, is a promising alternative in nematode management M. javanica.

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