Abstract
Abstract Resistance to the microbial insecticide Btk occurred in a number of laboratory populations of Lepidoptera before it was discovered in field populations. Therefore, it is not surprising that cabbage loopers (Trichoplusia ni) in semi-contained vegetable greenhouses were among the first examples of Btk resistance in agricultural situations. We have studied the occurrence of Btk resistance in cabbage loopers in greenhouse populations and the movement of resistance among greenhouse populations of moths. Migratory populations of cabbage loopers remained highly susceptible to Btk sprays in fields in the vicinity of greenhouses. Complete clean-up of greenhouses to remove any overwintering moths is necessary to reduce selection for resistance. Cabbage loopers represent a model system for the study of Btk resistance in contained, seasonal environments.
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