Natural introgression of Bt genes from Bt corn to traditional maize: the case of Silangan variety from San Carlos, Pangasinan, Philippines
2019
Caasi-Lit, M.T. | Novio, B.A. | Salazar, A.M. | Paril, J.P. | Cuizon, R.P. | Macasaet, J.P.A. | Panabang, B.B. | Alvarez, A.M. | Marmeto, A.D.
The Asian corn borer (ACB), Ostrinia furnacalis (Guenee), became effectively managed when Bt corn was introduced in 2003 in the Philippines. However, ACB remains a serious problem for open pollinated varieties (OPV). The search for alternative and safe control measures continues especially for the latter. The Corn Germplasm Utilization through Advanced Research and Development (CGUARD) program of the Department of Agriculture initiated the collection of our traditional maize varieties from all over the country as sources of traits for tolerance or resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Field performance and status of these genetic resources were initially assessed for ACB resistance vis-a-vis the last 15 years of Bt corn planting. The screening efforts partly aim to determine the presence of Bt genes (Cry1Ab) in the collection. Field visits were done in several towns of San Carlos, Pangasinan, [Philippines] to interview the original Silangan corn farmers. This traditional corn has been planted since the 1930's by their parents and they continue to grow the said variety despite the availability of Bt corn in the surrounding field. This study discussed the case of Silangan variety from Pangasinan which has been naturally introgressed with Bt Cry1Ab genes. This traditional maize had good agronomic/consumer qualities and observed tolerance to drought.
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