Performance of generalist corn pests as affected by nitrogen inputs and mycorrhizal colonization

Symbiotic interactions with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) may help plants cope with biotic factors (i.e., pests), but these interactions can be modulated by agricultural management practices, including fertilization regimes. Although the effect of phosphorous on plant-AMF interactions has received much scientific attention, the impact of nitrogen on such interactions remains largely unexplored. Therefore, this project will assess the effects of organic vs. synthetic nitrogen inputs on AMF colonization.  Moreover, performance of corn earworm (Helicoverpa zea) and bird cherry oat aphid (Rhopalosiphum padi) performance on corn (Zea mays) will be assessed.