Researchers are exploring innovative methods to manage the corn earworm population, a significant pest affecting sweet corn crops in Colorado. The pest, which is actually a moth, has developed resistance to traditional insecticides, prompting the need for alternative solutions. Adrian Card, a State Produce Specialist with CSU Extension, highlighted the severity of the issue, noting that approximately 2300 acres of sweet corn were lost last year, resulting in $2.7 million in losses.

The increased resilience of corn earworms is believed to be partly due to climate change, with milder winters allowing the pest to overwinter in regions north of the 40th degrees' latitude. This shift has led researchers to consider a unique approach to pest management: using a virus transmitted sexually among the earworm population to prevent the production of viable offspring. This method, humorously referred to as "moths with STDs" by the project team, is currently under investigation. Although not yet approved by the EPA for widespread use, initial results within narrow parameters have shown promise.

This innovative strategy places Colorado at the forefront of addressing a global challenge, as corn earworms pose a threat to crops worldwide. The research also evaluates the potential of genetically modified sweet corn to combat the pest without chemical insecticides. However, the adoption of genetically modified crops is hindered by market perceptions and a lack of evidence linking GMO crops to health issues.

Source - https://www.freshplaza.com