Transgenic Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) crops producing Cry proteins are the most important contribution of biotechnology to date for control of some major caterpillar and beetle pests in agriculture. Like chemical insecticides, widespread adoption of Bt crops has placed a strong selection pressure on the insect populations, resulting in the evolution of insect resistance to Bt proteins. Resistance of European corn borer (ECB) to Cry1 Bt proteins has been documented in Canada and Connecticut, U.S. During 2023-2024, we detected high frequency of Cry2Ab2 resistance alleles in field populations of ECB in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Genetic basis and cross-resistance of the Cry2Ab2 resistance in these ECB populations are analyzed in this study. In addition, due to the widespread resistance of western corn rootworm (WCR) and ongoing resistance of northern corn rootworm (NCR) to Cry Bt proteins in Minnesota, alternative management strategies are needed for better control of these rootworm complexes.  In this presentation, we will focus on the evaluation of Bt traits, at-plating insecticides, and seed treatments for management of rootworms.

Speaker: Fei Yang, University of Minnesota

Biography: Dr. Fei Yang is an assistant professor and Corn Extension Entomologist in the Department of Entomology at the University of Minnesota since May 2023. Dr. Yang received his Ph.D. in Entomology in 2014 at the Louisiana State University. Dr. Yang is a well-trained and competent field entomologist who has a special set of skills, knowledge, and abilities in row crop pest management, insect ecology, insect behavior, and insecticide resistance management. Dr. Yang has conducted both basic and applied research to generate scientific data to support the sustainable use of Bt crop technologies for pest management in the U.S. for >13 years. Dr. Yang has also been active in Extension services with growers, Extension Specialists and IPM Agents through field days and Extension meetings. Dr. Yang has an excellent record of scholarship with 54 peer-reviewed publications and > $3.5 million in grants from federal, state and industry agencies. His research and Extension program at the UMN focus on biology, ecology, integrated pest management and insecticide resistance management of some major corn insect pests, such as European corn borer and corn rootworm, to improve the environmental and economic sustainability of corn production through integrated pest management strategies.