The researchers said it is important to realize these insects must survive to adulthood before they can pass their genes to the next generation. Even if some of these insects are able to cause more damage to plants than similar non-resistant insects, the resistance will not be passed on to future generations if they are killed before they mature and mate. They indicated the pests would "probably be killed" by high dose Bt corn plants, but are conducting further study.
"One of the key factors is that you have these individuals that you don't know what side of the line they are going to fall," McGaughey said. "These European corn borers appear to be closer to the dominant side but one or more of the Bt resistance genes of some type is out there."
McGaughey said the study is a real "hot button" issue because of the environmental impact of the resistance management plan.
"It's awfully important that we get these resistance management plans just right," McGaughey said. "If we're too cautious we may deprive ourselves the benefits of this technology. On the other hand, if we're not cautious enough, we may have to go back to using chemicals."
Higgins emphasizes that while no resistance has yet been detected under field conditions, there is strong concern that it could develop.
"Probably one of the key outcomes of this study is that resistance management plans are important," Huang said. "It's very clear that since the borers have the opportunity to develop resistance to some of these toxins, it is not a question of should you have a plan or not. Developing a workable plan that farmers will use represents an important investment."
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Contact: Randall Higgins
rah@ksu.edu
785-532-6154
Kansas State University
7-May-1999