Project Number: 6204-22000-016-02
Project Type: Specific C/A

Start Date: Sep 01, 2000
End Date: Aug 31, 2005

Objective:
This cooperative research project is to measure the effects of transgenic crops on the natural enemies of selected pests.

Approach:
Commercial varieties of certain major crops that contain transgenes with resistance to key insect pests will be evaluated for possible effects on the pest's natural enemies. Widely used genetically altered varieties of crop such as corn, cotton, cabbage will be grown in field plots and greenhouses. Key pests such as the European cornborer, cotton bollworm, beet armyworm and diamondback moth will be established on the appropriate crop type. The biology and behavior of selected predators, parasitoids and pathogens of the pests will be recorded. Field trials will compare the occurrence and effect of natural enemies and pest species in transgenic versus non-transgenic varieties. Greenhouse and laboratory studies will record possible effects on the biology of selected natural enemies attacking individual pest species. Possible effects of transgenic crops on non-target pests such as plant bugs, aphids and whiteflies, and their natural enemies will also be investigated.

Project Team

Jones, Walker Jose Amador - Center Director (956)969-4851

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003   FY 2002   FY 2001

Related National Programs

Crop Protection & Quarantine (304)