Evaluation of Transgenic Corn Against European Corn Borer, 1997C
Abstract This experiment was conducted to assess the performance of Bacillus thuringienis (Bt) trangenic corn hybrids (100- and 105-day RM) and comparable non-Bt hybrids against a natural ECB infestation in east central Minnesota. Plots, each measuring 50 ft by 8 rows (30- inch row spacing), were established in Dakota silt loam soil on 19 May at a rate of 32,000 seeds per acre. Plots were arranged in a RCB with four replications. ECB injury assessments for first generation on 30 Jul included % shotholing from the center two rows of each plot and leaf injury ratings (1 to 9 scale) from 10 plants per plot. Tunnel length and number from first generation were measured from 10 plants per plot on 13-15 Aug. Measurements for second generation ECB on 14, 20, & 27 Oct included cumulative tunnel length and number, fall larvae, ear and shank damage from 10 plants per plot. Plants were harvested on 6 Nov and yields were corrected to 15.5% moisture.