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ARS Home » Midwest Area » Ames, Iowa » Corn Insects and Crop Genetics Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #114327
Title: BT CORN AND THE MONARCH BUTTERFLY: RESEARCH UPDATE

Author
item Hellmich Ii, Richard
item SIEGFRIED, BLAIR - UNIV OF NEBRASKA

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 8/19/2001
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: The effects of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) corn on non-target organisms have received much attention since researchers from Cornell suggested that pollen from Bt corn was hazardous to the larvae of the Monarch butterfly, Danaus plexippus. The corn hybrids in question have been genetically modified to express an insecticidal protein derived from the bacterium, B. thuringiensis. Bt provides yield protection from pest species such as the European corn borer, Ostrinia nubilalis, and some protection from other Lepidoptera without the use of traditional insecticides or other management practices. More than a year has passed since initial concerns were expressed. In response to these concerns, several researchers have begun studies to evaluate the effects of Bt pollen on Monarch larvae. This chapter provides an overview of these investigations and significant related events.