You are here:
Selection for Cry3Bb1 resistance in a genetically diverse population of nondiapausing Western Corn Rootworm (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
Citation:
OSWALD, K., B. French, C. Nielson, AND M. BAGLEY. Selection for Cry3Bb1 resistance in a genetically diverse population of nondiapausing Western Corn Rootworm (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae). Journal of Economic Entomology. Entomological Society of America, Lantham, MD, 104(3):1038-1044, (2011).
Impact/Purpose:
We describe development of resistance to MON863 corn expressing Cry3Bb1 and also estimate the heritability of resistance within laboratory lines of western corn rootworm (WCR). Our study is intended to provide data for the characterization of Bt resistance within WCR and complement the few other studies that have investigated Bt resistance in this pest species. Finally, we discuss the implications of our results for the insect resistance management plan currently in place for Bt corn in the United States.
Description:
Five short-diapause laboratory lines of western corn rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera) were selected for resistance to MON863, a variety of corn genetically modified with the Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) transgene that expresses the Cry3Bb1 endotoxin. Three of the selected lines were developed by incremental increase in the duration of exposure to MON863 over 11 generations (Moderate Selected lines). Two selected lines were developed from a control group by constant exposure to MON863 for at least 14 d post hatch over seven generations (Intense Selected lines). At the end of the experiment, survivorship, as measured by adult emergence, was approximately four times higher in each of the selected lines reared on MON863 compared to control lines. Estimates of realized heritabilities were 0.08 and 0.07 for the Moderate and Intense Selected lines, respectively, and are consistent with h2 estimates previously reported from a variety of pest insects. These lines provide data necessary for evaluating the potential for Bt resistance within Diabroticite beetles and will be useful for developing improved insect resistance management strategies.