Target and Non-Target Organisms

Assessment of potential changes in the interactions between a GM plant and its biotic environment (target and non-target organisms, such as predators, parasitoids and pathogens) including impact on the abundance of competitors and herbivores.

Methods:

Greenhouse, field and laboratory studies will be used to determine the effect of GM plants on:

• butterflies and their antagonists (including predators like spiders, and parasitoids like Trichogramma)
• the biological performance of aphids and their antagonists
• other herbivores
• the baseline susceptibility of target organisms to insecticides
• the fauna and flora of the surrounding area