Scientists from Rothamsted Research are conducting a controlled experiment, combining modern genetic engineering with their knowledge of natural plant defences to test whether wheat that can repel aphid attack works in the field.

Wheat is the most important UK crop with an annual value of about £1.2 billion. Currently a large proportion of UK wheat is treated with broad spectrum chemical insecticides to control cereal aphids that reduce yields by sucking sap from plants and by transmitting barley yellow dwarf virus. Unfortunately, repeated use of insecticides often leads to resistant aphids and kills other non-target insect species including the natural enemies of aphids, which could have a further impact on biodiversity.

Professor Maurice Maloney says, "This is a critical experiment to begin Rothamsted's investigation of second generation GM technologies which focus upon naturally occurring deterrents of pests and diseases. We believe that using GM as a tool to emulate natural defence mechanisms provides a unique and world-leading approach that will also benefit the environment".

"We hope this novel ecological solution will help us explore the possibility of creating future crops that could help promote sustainable and environmentally friendly agriculture by needing less pesticides and working with, not against, the natural enemies of pests."

The genetically modified (GM) wheat plant works well in the laboratory, but in order to see if our approach is suitable, we need to test if it works in the field, in a more real-life setting. The experiment will also examine how any changes in aphid behaviour influences the behaviour of other insect populations, for example their natural predators.

There will be eight 6x6m plots (288m2) planted with GM wheat in 2012 and the same again in 2013. The total area including non-GM controls and spacing between GM plots will cover 80 x 80 metres. Rothamsted propose to carry out two trials in consecutive seasons and to avoid reusing the same ground, which will give them more accurate results.

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