Genetically engineered maize that produces the insecticide Bt is less prone
to mould. Gary Munkvold of Iowa State University says caterpillars killed by Bt
maize spread the spores of moulds and promote infection by wounding plants.
Fusarium mould produces toxins called fumonisins, which poison cows and pigs
and may be human carcinogens, while Aspergillus produces toxic
aflatoxin. Munkvold reports that some Bt maize carries less than a tenth as much
fumonisin and less than a quarter as much aflatoxin as non-Bt strains.
More from New Scientist
Explore the latest news, articles and features
Physics
Record-breaking, fast-spinning magnet could help uncover new physics
News
Environment
An unexpected feedback loop may be driving mega heatwaves
News
91色情片
Less than 4 minutes of vigorous exercise a day could halve your dementia risk
News
91色情片
Parkinson鈥檚 may be driven by ‘vicious cycle’ that disrupts brain waste drainage
News
Popular articles
Trending New Scientist articles