Transgenic Vs. Non-Transgenic Cotton in Regional High Quality Tests

Transgenic and conventional cotton varieties were evaluated for lint yield and fiber quality in Regional High Quality (RHQ) tests every year. The test data are stored in NCVT database which allow a comparative study of yield, fiber quality, and more importantly, their response to environments between transgenic and non-transgenic varieties. The RHQ tests of 2002-2016 were analyzed for the purpose of comparisons. Lint yield of transgenic varieties were higher than non-transgenic ones, but fiber quality of transgenic cotton were inferior to the non-transgenic cotton. Their responses to environments were compared between the two types of cotton and discussed.