SD47: European corn borer phenology in Connecticut

Historically, the European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis; ECB) was a highly damaging pest of corn. Bt corn has been highly effective at controlling ECB in corn production, with no cases of ECB resistance to targeted Bt toxins for over 20 years. However, in 2018, evidence of resistance to Cry1F was reported in Nova Scotia, Canada and continues to persist. In 2023, unexpected ECB injury was observed on sweet corn expressing Cry1Ab, Cry1A.105, and Cry2Ab2 in Canada and Connecticut, USA. To better understand ECB population dynamics and phenology in New England, we utilized Z and E pheromone lures and Hartstack traps at three sites in Connecticut from May-September 2024. Weekly moth counts provide an opportunity to better predict ECB abundance and pressure in New England so that we can implement resistance mitigation and management programs.