Refuge is one of the components of the resistance management strategy for transgenic hybrids, because it may provide susceptible insects to mate with potential resistant insects. Presently growers are required to plant a minimum of 20% field con as a refuge. In this study, popcorn was evaluated for its value as a refuge crop for Ostrinia nubilalis (Hübner) and the Diabrotica complex. The goal is to provide growers with an alternative refuge crop capable of producing large populations of both insects in a small area. The effects of several popcorn varieties on O. nubilalis density and distribution were investigated on three farms. How popcorn affected the density, survival, sex ratio and size of Diabrotica beetles also were observed. Results from these experiments, show that popcorn can be an efficient refuge for both insect pests.
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