Effects of Bt Maize Pollen on Green Lacewings
Author Information
Author(s): Li Yunhe, Meissle Michael, Romeis Jörg
Primary Institution: Agroscope Reckenholz-Tänikon Research Station ART, Zurich, Switzerland
Hypothesis
Does consumption of Bt maize pollen expressing Cry1Ab or Cry3Bb1 harm adult green lacewings?
Conclusion
Adult green lacewings are not adversely affected by consuming Bt maize pollen.
Supporting Evidence
- Survival, pre-oviposition period, fecundity, fertility, and dry weight were not significantly different between Bt and non-Bt maize pollen treatments.
- Adult lacewings fed with purified Cry proteins showed no adverse effects on life-table parameters.
- ELISA tests confirmed the presence of Cry proteins in lacewings fed Bt maize pollen.
Takeaway
This study found that eating pollen from genetically modified maize doesn't hurt green lacewings, which are good bugs that help control pests.
Methodology
Laboratory experiments were conducted where adult lacewings were fed Bt maize pollen and their fitness parameters were measured over 28 days.
Limitations
The study was conducted in a controlled laboratory setting, which may not fully represent field conditions.
Participant Demographics
Adult green lacewings, Chrysoperla carnea.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p>0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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