The western corn rootworm Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is an important pest on corn in Kansas. The larvae feed on roots and adults on the foliage and silks of corn. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) corn is currently commercially available for the control of certain lepidopteran pests. Research is being conducted on Bt corn hybrids for the control of corn rootworm. Data from preliminary experiments have demonstrated that some of the new Bt events can be very effective against corn rootworm larvae and the resistant plants have well-developed root systems when compared to non-Bt insecticide-treated plants.
This study was conducted to determine the effects of transgenic corn for corn rootworm control on nontarget soil mites (Prostigmata, Mesostigmata, Oribatei) and Collembola. Different Bt and non-Bt corn hybrids were planted in the field in 2000 and 2001 at six locations in Kansas. Soil samples were taken on three dates and were processed using Tullgren funnels. At most of the locations Prostigmatids and /or Oribatids constituted the majority of the Acarina identified. With few exceptions, there were no significant differences in the numbers of soil mites between treatments at specific locations and specific dates. Collembolans were present in moderate to low numbers at most locations and numbers of this group were more variable. In general there was no significant difference in numbers of Collembola between treatments. Based on our data transgenic corn for corn rootworm control has no deleterious effects on soil mites or collembolans.
Species 1: Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Diabrotica virgifera virgifera (Western corn rootworm)
Keywords: Bt corn, non-target species
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