Application of pyramided traits against Lepidoptera in insect resistance management for Bt crops

Since initial launch of insect protected transgenic crops, the most effective strategy to manage the potential for target pests to evolve resistance has been the use of a single mode of action with "high dose" and structured refuge. However, the effectiveness of this strategy is limited if mortality of certain pests does not reach "high dose" criteria, inconsistent implementation of refuges and non-rare resistance alleles. More recently, several pyramided trait products, which include multiple modes of action against key target pests, have been developed. These products offer the potential for dramatically improved resistance management with smaller refuges and less dependence on high mortality of susceptible and heterozygous insects and rare resistance alleles. We show that products such as SmartStax and PowerCore offer compelling resistance management benefits compared with single mode of action products and allow for the option of products containing refuge seed mixtures rather than structured refuges to effectively delay resistance. We conclude that all stakeholders, including technology developers, growers, crop advisors, extensions services and regulatory authorities should continue to encourage the development, deployment and adoption of pyramided trait products for improved pest management and improved resistance management.