Jarrod T. Hardke1, B. R. Leonard2, and K.D. Emfinger2. (1) LSU AgCenter, Dept. Of Entomology, 582 Life Science Bldg., Baton Rouge, LA 70803, (2) LSU AgCenter, Macon Ridge Station, 212 Macon Ridge, Winnsboro, LA 71295
Transgenic varieties continue to make up an ever-increasing number of cotton acres planted annually across the United States. New Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) technologies are being developed to further improve cotton IPM strategies. The effectiveness of these technologies must be established not only for primary, but also for secondary Lepidopteran pests. The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith), has emerged as a common insect pest in transgenic Bt cotton fields during the mid-to-late season. The capability of this pest to injure cotton bolls and cause yield losses remains a significant issue for the cotton industry. Laboratory trials were conducted in Northeast Louisiana to evaluate the efficacy of Bollgard®, Bollgard II®, and WideStrike® and VIPCOT™ cotton lines against fall armyworm.