2006 Arizona Adult Pink Bollworm Moths Sampling for Molecular Analysis

Prepared By:  Larry Antilla

A plan was developed by Dennehy and Tabashnik for late season sampling
of adult pink bollworm moths in Delta traps for expediting molecular
analysis to detect mutations associated with resistance to Bt cotton. 
In the plan, 10 or more sites in Arizona cotton growing areas were
subjected to multiple traps deployed, collected and sampled within a two
day period to ensure the presence of live moths, hence “fresh” DNA
for molecular analysis.  Traps from each site were examined for live
moths (exhibiting movement) a minimum of 100 of which were then
transferred into 95% ethanol and frozen for DNA analysis.

This approach will continue during the Eradication Program but the
relative large numbers of native moths needed for analysis (50-100) are
not normally available until September or October when late season moth
flights occur.

For the purpose of the EPA submission, the ACRPC has proposed to
identify up to five sample areas in which elevated native counts in Bt
fields may suggest a resistance threat.  If such areas develop, they
will be sampled according to the established protocol for analysis.

To date, (July 22, 2006) only one group of fields have given any
indication of increased native moth levels.  These four fields (#s
4335-4338) have been trapped, sampled and have had up to 100 male moths
preserved for molecular analysis.

Trapping data continues to be examined weekly for additional suspect
sites.

VOLUME 3

DOCUMENT 3

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