Bt-RW Corn - Effects on Plant Water & Nutrient Use

Adoption of corn hybrids with specific insect traits has increased significantly since the introduction of the first Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) trait, YieldGard Corn Borer in 1997.  In 2004, Monsanto Company launched its first Bt rootworm product (YieldGard rootworm).  The benefits of this product include: increased root protection; reduced incidence of corn stalk rots; and increased yield protection.  Initially, growers recognized the value of transgenic corn rootworm corn (Cry3Bb1 protein) hybrids because grain yield losses from western (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera), northern (D. barberi ), and Southwestern corn rootworm (D. undecempunctata howardi) decreased.  However, substitative plant health benefits appear to be playing a significant role in these increased grain yields.  This paper will address recent field research focused on evaluating the water and nutrient use benefits of YieldGard Rootworm products.

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Terry Semmel Area Technology Development Manager
Monsanto
terry.w.semmel@monsanto.com

Dr. Terry Semmel works as an Area Technology Development Manager for Monsanto in Lafayette Indiana.  Dr Semmel has worked with Monsanto for 11 years in various technology development positions inside Monsanto, all of which have been in the states of Indiana and Kentucky.  Prior to Monsanto, Terry directed the Purdue Crop Diagnostic Training and Research Center in West Lafayette.