Restoring A Natural Root Signal Helps To Fight A Major Corn Pest
Friday, August 28, 2009 - 23:40
in Biology & Nature
Agricultural researchers have successfully manipulated a crop plant to emit a signal that attracts beneficial organisms. Genetic transformation of maize plants resulted in the release of the naturally active substance (E)-beta-caryophyllene from their roots. The substance attracts nematodes that kill larvae of the Western corn rootworm, a voracious root pest.
