Genetically modified (GM) soybean DAS 81419-2 which contains two novel
insect resistance genes has been given nonregulated status by the Animal and
Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) of the U.S. Department of
Agriculture. Technology developer Dow Agrosciences said the Bt combination
provides broad in-plant protection against lepidopteran pests such as
(Spodoptera frugiperda), soybean looper (Pseudoplusia includes), velvetbean
caterpillar (Anticarsia gemmatalis), soybean podworm (Helicoverpa
gelotopoeon) and tobacco budworm (Heliothis virescens) as well as
Rachiplusia nu.

The U.S. is yet the only country where the combined Bt trait has been
submitted for regulatory approval. The company believes that the trait would
be beneficial in South America including Brazil and Argentina, where
lepidopteran insect pressure can be quite high.

[www.agprofessional.com]