IMPACT OF AN RR CROP IN DENMARK

From IPMnet News

Researchers in the Danish Ministry of Environment and Energy's National Environmental Research Institute (NERI) recently published FLORA AND FAUNA IN ROUNDUP TOLERANT FODDER BEET FIELDS, a 40 page study that found, in this instance, use of transgenic crops increased biodiversity compared to traditional herbicide treatments. The report, by N. Elmegaard and M.B. Pedersen, noted both arthro- pod and floral differences including increased predator populations apparently attracted by greater prey density. The authors suggest that delayed application of glyphosate led to emergence of a wider weed species range and consequently more host material for phyto- phagous insects. NERI Technical Report #349. *--> NERI, PO Box 314, DK-8600 Silkeborg, DENMARK. Fax: 45-89-20-1414. Website: http://www.dmu.dk/1_viden/2_Publikationer/3_fagrapporter/rapporter/FR349.pdf>.