Evaluation of the potential exposure of butterflies to genetically modified maize pollen in protected areas in Italy.

摘要: Environmental impacts of genetically modified crops are mandatorily assessed during their premarket phase. One the areas concern is possible impact on nontarget organisms. Crops expressing Cry toxins might affect Lepidoptera larvae living outside cultivated fields, through pollen deposition wild plants, which constitute food source. While toxicity varies among different events, exposure species depends agro-environmental conditions. This study was conducted in two protected Italy, characterized by climatic conditions, where many thrive proximity to maize cultivations. To estimate absence actual stressor (e.g., Cry1-expressing plants), we a two-year field survey butterflies and weeds. Indicator were selected-Aglais (Inachis) io Northern site Vanessa cardui Southern site-and phenology investigated. Pollen dispersal from fields measured collection Petri dishes. Duration frequency defined overlap between emission presence host plants. Different risk scenarios expected regions: highest foreseen for A. site, while minimal estimated V. site. In latter case, locally grown cultivars flower mid-summer coincidence with an aestivation period several butterfly due hot dry Moreover, plants at end life cycle thus limiting availability.