Which two soybean pests are usually kept in check by fungal pathogens?

Fungal pathogens play a crucial role in regulating pest populations, particularly among certain arthropods. In the case of the two-spotted spider mite and green cloverworm, specific fungal pathogens are known to infect and impact their populations. For example, Beauveria bassiana and other fungi can cause diseases in these pests, thereby limiting their numbers and reducing the damage they cause to soybean crops.

The two-spotted spider mite, often a significant pest in soybean production, can be effectively controlled by these fungal pathogens as they tend to thrive under warm and dry conditions, which can also favor the growth of certain fungal pathogens. Similarly, the green cloverworm, which feeds on soybean foliage, can be affected by these fungi, contributing to natural pest suppression.

Understanding the interactions between fungal pathogens and pests is important for integrated pest management strategies. This approach minimizes reliance on chemical pesticides and leverages natural biological controls to achieve pest management objectives sustainably. In this context, two-spotted spider mites and green cloverworms are good examples of pests that benefit from the action of fungal pathogens.