Bt Maize Shows Strong Protection Against Major Pests in Tropical Asia

A new study has confirmed that Bt maize containing three insect-resistant proteins (Cry1Ab, Cry2Ab, and Cry1Fa) is highly effective against fall armyworm and other major lepidopteran pests in tropical Asia. These pests pose a significant threat to maize production in a region that serves as a year-round breeding zone and a source of seasonal pest migration across Asia.

The researchers evaluated the Bt maize event LP026-2 by measuring toxin levels in different plant parts and conducting bioassays on six key pests. Laboratory tests showed more than 90% mortality against all targeted pests in leaf and kernel assays within five days. The results revealed that Helicoverpa armigera showed the highest susceptibility, followed by Spodoptera frugiperda, Ostrinia furnacalis, Mythimna separata, Spodoptera exigua, and Spodoptera litura.

The field trials confirmed that Bt maize showed fewer larvae, reduced plant damage, and better crop performance compared to non-Bt maize. The study concludes that Bt maize expressing Cry1Ab, Cry2Ab, and Cry1Fa provides strong, broad-spectrum protection against multiple migratory pests. The Bt maize also delivered yield increases of 4.52% to 25.41% compared with non-Bt maize, highlighting its potential as a valuable tool for managing insect pressures and strengthening maize production systems across tropical Asia.

For more information, read the abstract from Pest Management Science.