Understanding Spodoptera litura larval survival in Bollgard 3 crops in Northern Australia

Abstract

The introduction of Bt cotton has facilitated industry expansion into regions historically burdened by high insect populations. Since experimental farming of Bollgard 3 commenced in Northern Australia in 2017, there have been frequent reports of S. litura larvae of all instar sizes surviving in some crops. Effective pest and resistance management relies on a comprehensive understanding of pest biology, ecology and host-plant interactions. However, due to its rarity in Australia's temperate climates, little is known about S. litura, hindering the development of sustainable management practices. Investigating factors associated with larval survival in Bollgard 3 crops marks the initial step in assessing the pest status and resistance risks posed by S. litura in co on across Northern Australia. Here we discuss a series of experiments exploring various mechanisms that potentially facilitate improved larval survival, including plant phenology and different plant parts.