Work

Short-term assessment of bt maize on non-target arthropods in Brazil

Year: 2007

Type: article

Abstract: Although not yet available for cultivation in Brazil, the effect of Bt maize hybrids on natural enemies and soil dwelling arthropods should be assessed prior to its release to growers. Trials were carried out during one growing season in two different locations with the genetically modified maize hybrids 7590-Bt11 and Avant-ICP4, comparing with their respective non-Bt isogenic hybrids. Arthropods were evaluated through direct observation on plants and pitfall traps. In general, no differences were observed between populations of earwig (Dermaptera: Forficulidae), lady beetles (Coleptera: Coccinellidae), minute pirate bug (Coleoptera: Anthocoridae), ground beetles (Carabidae), tiger beetles (Cicindelidae), and spiders (Araneae). There was no difference in egg parasitism of Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) by Trichogramma sp. (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae). Thus, Bt maize hybrids expressing insecticide proteins Cry1A(b) and VIP 3A do not cause reduction of the main maize dweeling predators and parasitoids.

Source: Scientia Agricola

DOI: 10.1590/s0103-90162007000300006

Authors: Odair Aparecido Fernandes, Marcos Faria, Samuel Martinelli, Francisco Schmidt, Vinícius Ferreira Carvalho, Gloverson Moro

Institutions: Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp), Embrapa Recursos Genéticos e Biotecnologia, Universidade de São Paulo

Language: English

Topic: Genetically Modified Organisms Research

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $900