ST. PAUL, Minn. — While European corn borer once caused substantial yield losses and economic damage for corn growers across the United States, the pest has not been a major cause of concern since Bt technology was introduced as an effective strategy in mitigating the pest in the 1990s. However, in recent years, the pest has begun to develop a resistance to Bacillus thuringiensis crops. In 2021, European corn borer alone was responsible for the losses of approximately 338,000 bushels of corn in the U.S., according to the University of Minnesota. In 2021, European corn borer alone was responsible for the losses of approximately 338.6 thousand bushels of corn in the U.S., according to the University of Minnesota. Nick Wagner / The Forum
The resistance is a growing concern for farmers in these provinces, as it threatens their ability to control the pest and potentially impact crop yields. The European corn borer (ECB) is a major pest of corn, causing significant damage to crops. It is a highly destructive insect that can cause up to 50% of crop yield loss. The ECB is native to North America and has been present in the development of corn for centuries.
* The University of Minnesota researchers are studying the impact of climate change on corn production in the Midwest. * They are focusing on the effects of extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods, on corn yields. * The research is being conducted in collaboration with the Minnesota Corn Growers Association and the Minnesota Corn Research and Promotion Council.
They can also lay eggs in a variety of crops, including corn, soybeans, and even potatoes,” explains Dr. David Smith, a professor at the University of Minnesota. The study aims to understand how these populations are distributed and how they are affected by environmental factors. This includes factors like temperature, rainfall, and the presence of natural enemies.
This statement highlights a critical issue in the use of genetically modified crops (GMOs) like Bt corn. The Bt technology, which utilizes a gene from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), produces a protein that is toxic to certain insects, including the European corn borer. However, the rapid evolution of resistance to this protein in the target pest has become a significant concern.
The University of Minnesota advises anyone that has identified European corn borer infestations in their field to reach out to them so they can help in determining the Bt resistance levels of these insects.