Transgenic corn (Mon 863) has been genetically modified to express Bt toxin (Cry3Bb1) in corn roots to control corn rootworm. Previous studies with other toxins suggest Bt toxin may be present in the root exudates or plant residue. If Bt toxin is released into the soil rhizosphere, it may affect other organisms that occur there. Two different greenhouse studies were conducted to determine the effect of root exudates and biomass on weight and mortality of earthworms, Lumbricus terrestris (Annelida : Lumbricidae). Immunological assays were conducted to determine if the Cry3Bb1 toxin was present in the soil from the guts of earthworms. Results of these studies showed that there were no significant differences in weight (g) and percent mortality of earthworms after 35 days in soil planted with Bt and non-Bt corn plants or after 45 days in soil contaminated with ground air dried biomass of Bt and non-Bt plants.
Species 1: Annelida Lumbricidae Lumbricus terrestris (earthworm)
Keywords: Cry3Bb1, Bt corn
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