Stak’d Against Corn Rootworm: A New Triple-Threat Trait for 2027- Durastak™

This Cornelius Seed podcast episode focuses on the evolving challenge of corn rootworm and what’s new in managing it, featuring Brian Walsh with GreenLeaf Genetics. Walsh explains rootworm lifecycle, how western rootworm and northern rootworm have reduced the effectiveness of crop rotation, and why multiple modes of action are important for resistance management. The discussion introduces Syngenta’s Durastak™ (and Durastak Viptera™), an industry-first triple Bt protein approach for below-ground rootworm control, positioned for moderate-to-high pressure fields, with plot testing in 2026 and a full commercial launch in 2027 via the Cornelius portfolio. They compare Durastak™ to Duracade™ and share data showing improved root protection, standability, and about a 10-bushel yield advantage under moderate-to-heavy pressure, emphasizing multi-year trait rotation and matching genetics to fields. 00:00 Resistance Management Basics00:44 Podcast Intro and Guest02:46 Rootworm Problem Overview03:57 Rootworm Lifecycle and Evolution07:11 What Is Durastak™08:46 Duracade™ vs Durastak™ Positioning11:46 Triple Bt Proteins Explained15:24 No Silver Bullet Field Management17:58 Trait Stack Pest Control Chart21:40 Root Protection and Yield Loss23:58 Cry Proteins vs RNAi Rotation27:13 Yield Advantage Data29:13 Multi Year Rotation Strategy33:41 Wrap Up and Final Advice