Author(s): BORTOLOTTO, O. C.; SILVA, G. V.; BUENO, A. de F.; RODRIGUES, R. B.; QUEIROZ, A. P.

Summary: The cultivation of genetically modified plants (e.g. Bt-maize) is currently an alternative method of controlling major crops pests. Therefore, is important to know the influence of Bt-plants on pest and non-pest insects. This study aimed evaluate the impact of Cry1F and Cry1F+Cry1A.105+Cry2Ab2 proteins Bt expressed in corncobs on larval development of Spodoptera eridania (Cramer, 1782) and Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith, 1789) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). The immature grains were offered ad libitum to new-hatched larvae (until 24 hs old), to compare the development of the specimens fed to non-Bt corn (DOW 2B688) and two isogenic Bt, that express one (Cry1F) and three insecticides protein (Cry1F+Cry 1A.105+Cry2Ab2). The larvae survived less than two days when consumed both Bt immature grains and reach 100% of mortality. Spodoptera eridania reared on non-Bt corns grains shows a longer longevity (21.6 days) than S. frugiperda (18.4 days), but a lower viability (56.5% and 80.2% to S. eridania and S. frugiperda, respectively). Interesting, S. eridania consume a more amount immature grains (5.4g) than S. frugiperda (3.9 g). In summary, this study confirms that the toxins Cry1F, Cry1F+Cry 1A.105+Cry2Ab2 expressed in fresh corncobs are an important tool to protect the corn ears against S. frugiperda and the nontarget pest S. eridania, however is important monitored the non-Bt corn fields due the possibility of this species caused damage in ears corn.

Publication year: 2014

Types of publication: Abstract in annals or event proceedings

Unit: Embrapa Soybean

Keywords: Corn, Corn cobs, Espiga, Genetically modified organisms, Milho, Organismo transgênico