European Corn Borer (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae): Yield Losses and Damage in Popcorn in Relation to Hybrid and Stage of Plant Development

Abstract

During a 2-year period, two popcorn hybrids (Iopop 12 and Indiana AES experimental hybrid 8365) were infested with European corn borer (ECB), Ostrinia nubilalis (Hübner), egg masses at five plant-growth stages (mid-whorl, late whorl, tassel emergence, anthesis, and 14 days after anthesis). Six levels of infestations were used (none, natural, 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 egg masses per plant). Considerable yield loss occurred in Iopop 12 from as few as 0.5 egg masses per plant at all plant-growth stages. Yield losses in hybrid 8365 were significant but less than in Iopop 12. Yield potential of Iopop 12 was greater than that of hybrid 8365, but potential yield losses and damage from ECB infestation were also greater. ECB infestation had no effect on popping expansion of either hybrid.