Corn Rootworm Biology

Corn Rootworm History  
Overview
Understanding the lifecycle of corn rootworms is essential to addressing resistance issues in corn rootworm.   Three different species of corn rootworm exist.  Though very these species are similar, there are differences in the biology of each.  The Western corn rootworm is generally considered the most significant of the three as genetic resistance to Bt has been identified in Western corn rootworm populations.  The two other species are the Northern and Southern corn rootworms. Thus far, there has been less evidence of resistance populations in these species. This module will provide an overview of the lifecycle of corn rootworms.
Objectives
•    Become familiar with the life cycle of corn rootworms
•    Understand how the life cycle of corn rootworms provides challenges for effective control
•    Understand how the lifecycle of corn rootworm influences control measures
Significance
An understanding of the corn rootworm lifecycle can be used to provide a more effective and comprehensive approach to dealing with corn rootworms and resistance issues.  Control measures can be used incorrectly without a proper understanding of corn rootworm biology.  This module will not go into a great amount of detail, but will provide a framework for this concept.
Learning Outcomes
•    Know the parts of the insect life cycle when damage to plants takes place and how they differ from when control measures should be taken
•    Learn how to effectively plan specific control measures that take advantage of key times in the corn rootworm lifecycle

Corn Rootworm History