ARS | Publication request: Development of insect resistant sunflowers: Updates and challenges

Submitted to: World Wide Web
Publication Type: Other
Publication Acceptance Date: February 5, 2011
Publication Date: February 5, 2011
Citation: Chirumamilla, A., Charlet, L.D., Hulke, B.S., Knodel, J. 2011. Development of insect resistant sunflowers: Updates and challenges. Presentation at the National Sunflower Association Research Forum, January 12-13, 2011, Fargo, ND. Available: http://www.sunflowernsa.com/research/research-forum-presentations/2011/

Interpretive Summary: Entomology research of the sunflower research unit, USDA-ARS, in Fargo, ND, was discussed in a presentation to a group of producers, industry representatives, and scientists. There are 4 major insect pests for which we have no genetic resistance currently, and the goal of our work is to find genetic, host-plant resistance to these insects. Host plant resistance which is included in commercial sunflower hybrids should help us to reduce the amount of insecticide that is required to control these pests in agricultural fields.

Technical Abstract: Entomology research of the sunflower research unit, USDA-ARS, in Fargo, ND, was discussed in a presentation to a group of producers, industry representatives, and scientists. There are 4 major insect pests for which we have no genetic resistance currently, and the goal of our work is to find genetic, host-plant resistance to these insects. Host plant resistance which is included in commercial sunflower hybrids should help us to reduce the amount of insecticide that is required to control these pests in agricultural fields. Early data suggests that there is genetic resistance to all four of these insects, and the type of resistance includes antibiosis and antixenosis.