For years, two considerations have played an important role in soybean seed selection:
- Does this variety have tolerance to the herbicides my customers rely on?
- Does it provide native resistance to soybean cyst nematode (SCN)?
There’s good reason for both. SCN and tough weeds can significantly limit soybean yield potential. But those management needs can also narrow the options available when matching genetics and varieties to individual acres.
Novel soybean trait technology from BASF is poised to expand those options. By bringing additional tools for SCN and weed control into the seed, retailers can have greater flexibility to focus on genetics, agronomic fit and the specific needs of each soybean acre.
Introducing the Enlist E3® and Nemasphere™ Trait System
The Enlist E3® trait, jointly developed and owned by Corteva and M.S. Technologies, L.L.C., and the Nemasphere™ nematode resistance trait will bring more capabilities to soybeans.
Coming in 2028,* this trait system delivers the first-and-only biotech mode of action for SCN control and tolerance to four industry-leading herbicides: mesotrione, glyphosate, glufosinate and 2,4-D choline.
With the Enlist E3 and Nemasphere trait system, farmers get more options for flexible weed control programs and more tools in the fight against SCN, to help drive yield from all angles.
How the Trait System Works Against SCN
The Nemasphere trait provides season-long protection against SCN by producing the Bt protein Cry14Ab throughout the plant. When ingested, this protein disrupts the nematode gut lining, causing nematodes to stop feeding and die. As the root system grows and expands, this built-in protection continues into new root tissue for ongoing protection.
“In corn and cotton, Bt traits changed insect management from an active decision to passive management. It largely became part of seed selection,” says Justin Moritz, BASF Seeds and Traits Technical Lead. “The Enlist E3 and Nemasphere trait system has the potential to achieve something similar in soybeans, simplifying SCN management by putting protection into the seed itself.”
Stacked with Native Traits
Every variety containing the Enlist E3 and Nemasphere trait system also includes at least one native resistance source, either PI 88788 or Peking. This serves two key purposes:
- Providing multiple modes of action against SCN in the same variety for unmatched SCN protection
- Delivering a mutually reinforcing resistance-management strategy to protect the efficacy of each trait technology for future seasons
Nemasphere Trait Provides Durable, Long-Lasting SCN Protection
The Nemasphere trait helps preserve the effectiveness of native resistance, while native resistance helps protect Nemasphere trait. This builds stewardship into the seed without adding another task for farmers.
“We’ve learned that complicated stewardship practices can be cumbersome to maintain season after season,” says Moritz. “Putting the Nemasphere trait and a native resistance source together in the same variety builds resistance management into the seed rather than requiring a farmer to take another step.”
Varieties with the Enlist E3 and Nemasphere trait system do not require a refuge.
Bringing Mesotrione to the Soybean Acre
With the Enlist E3 and Nemasphere trait system, farmers can rely on four industry-leading modes of action to contend with tough weeds.
The Nemasphere trait brings a powerful class of chemistry to the soybean acre — HPPD Inhibitors. Specifically, this will add tolerance to mesotrione for residual control, in addition to 2,4-D choline, glyphosate, and glufosinate.
“Mesotrione tolerance is an important component of this trait system,” says Moritz. “Using this chemistry in a residual capacity enables an additional mode of action where it matters.”
Seed Treatments Complement Traits
Seed treatments and traits are not competing approaches; they work together to provide comprehensive protection. The Enlist E3 and Nemasphere trait system delivers SCN control that grows with the root system for season-long protection.
Looking Ahead
High-performing genetics and state-of-the-art traits are a powerful combination for yield. The Enlist E3 and Nemasphere trait system gives farmers and retailers more options to fight back against some of the most difficult agronomic challenges in soybeans.
“With this trait system, you can focus on placing the right genetics on the right acre to maximize yield potential, knowing you’ve got more options to manage weeds and SCN,” says Moritz.
To stay up to date on the Enlist E3 and Nemasphere trait system, visit Nemasphere.com or contact your local BASF representative.
*Pending regulatory approval
Legal:
Always read and follow label directions. The Nemasphere™ trait technology with mesotrione tolerance is owned and developed by BASF. Nemasphere is a trademark of BASF, ILEVO is a registered trademark of BASF. The transgenic soybean event in Enlist E3® soybeans is jointly developed and owned by Corteva Agriscience and M.S. Technologies, L.L.C. BASF licensed its Nemasphere™ nematode resistance soybean trait to Corteva and M.S. Technologies, L.L.C. for use with Enlist E3® soybeans. Enlist E3® is a trademark of Corteva Agriscience.
