The European corn borer (ECB), Ostrinia nubilalis (Hübner), and corn leaf aphid (CLA), Rhopalosiphum maidis (Fitch), are principal pests of value-added field corn varieties grown in Kentucky. To analyze the economic impact of ECB on high-oil and waxy corn a split plot design utilizing three planting dates, five infestation levels, and five replications was conducted in two field sites during 2000 and 2001 for high-oil corn and 2001 for waxy corn. The CLA is known to interfere with pollination and can potentially reduce yields in a Topcross ® production system. Greenhouse CLA populations were examined and their densities effect on pollen reduction and yield loss recorded. The effect of CLA populations on pollen production was correlated with yield loss via mechanical detasseling. Pollen producing corn was detasseled at five different levels to examine pollen loss in field situations. Plants were monitored throughout the field seasons for the appearance of the CLA; population densities were estimated and interactions between the pests recorded. Corn damage (leaf and stalk injury) and yield data were also collected. These data are compiled to develop new economic injury levels and economic thresholds for these pests in quality-enhanced maize.
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