Cotton is vital to Uzbekistan’s economy; however, its production sustains severe effects from the bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera). This destructive pest damages the plant’s reproductive parts, causing significant losses in seed cotton yield and fiber quality. Traditional reliance on chemical insecticides has led to pesticide resistance, ecological disruption, and environmental pollution, necessitating sustainable alternatives. Genetically modified Bt-cotton, expressing Bacillus thuringiensis toxins, offers an effective strategy by providing inherent genetic resistance against bollworm larvae. Bt cotton occurred as globally successful in reducing dependency on chemicals, and its efficacy depends on the local agroecological conditions. The data on the entomological effectiveness of Bt-cotton varieties remains limited in Uzbekistan. The potential study’s novelty lies in its field-based evaluation of transgenic varieties under specific agroclimatic conditions of Uzbekistan, focusing on pest infestation intensity and genotypic resistance. The practical significance of this research contributes to the development of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. By reducing dependency on chemical pesticides and improving environmental safety, this study aimed to enhance the long-term sustainability of cotton production in Uzbekistan.
Bt-cotton, Helicoverpa armigera, genetic resistance, entomological evaluation, integrated pest management, sustainable crop protection, Uzbekistan
Insect pests of different crops provided uneven distribution across the different regions of Uzbekistan, with species diversity and population density varying by agroecological zones and cropping seasons. The highest pest activity resulted in lowland areas during spring and summer.