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Using genetic science to control damaging plant pests

AZPM | By Tony Perkins

Published January 9, 2025 at 11:10 AM MST

Arizona Science 1-10-25 mezz — University of Arizona Professor Bruce Tabashnik and an image of a Corn Earworm (a.k.a. Cotton Bollworm).

Using genetic science to control damaging plant pests

The Corn Earworm attacks both corn and cotton in Arizona, causing millions of dollars in damage each year. University of Arizona director of Entomology Bruce Tabashnik discusses why genetically engineered crops developed to defeat the Earworm have failed to keep the pest at bay.

Bruce Tabashnik spoke with Tim Swindle, professor emeritus of planetary science at the University of Arizona.

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Tony Perkins

Tony is a veteran journalist whose career in broadcast journalism has spanned more than 30 years and 2 continents. He is host of The Press Room and producer for Arizona Science.

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Using genetic science to control damaging plant pests