Sure, here’s an article on the varieties of BT cotton:
BT (Bacillus thuringiensis) cotton is a genetically modified cotton that has been modified to produce a protein toxic to certain insects. This technology has led to a reduction in the use of toxic pesticides and has increased yields for farmers. There are several varieties of BT cotton available in the market today. In this article, we will discuss the different varieties of BT cotton and their characteristics.
Bollgard I:
Bollgard I is the first commercially available BT cotton variety, and it is widely grown in India, China, and other countries. This variety contains a single gene, Cry1Ac, derived from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis. The protein expressed by this gene is toxic to bollworms, a significant pest of cotton. Bollgard I has been shown to reduce the use of chemical insecticides while increasing yields.
Bollgard II:
Bollgard II is an improved version of Bollgard I and contains two genes, Cry1Ac and Cry2Ab. The addition of Cry2Ab provides resistance to a wider range of pests, including pink bollworms and spotted bollworms. Bollgard II has been shown to provide better protection against bollworms and has been popular among farmers in India.
Bollgard III:
Bollgard III is a next-generation BT cotton variety that contains three genes, Cry1Ac, Cry2Ab, and Cry1F. Cry1F provides protection against fall armyworm, a devastating pest that has been spreading rapidly across the world. Bollgard III has been tested in India, and it has shown promising results in controlling fall armyworm infestations.
Bollgard Flex:
Bollgard Flex is a new variety of BT cotton that has recently been introduced in India. This variety contains four genes, Cry1Ac, Cry2Ab, Cry1F, and Vip3A. Vip3A provides protection against Helicoverpa armigera, a significant pest of cotton. This variety has been developed to provide comprehensive protection against a wide range of pests, including bollworms, pink bollworms, fall armyworm, and Helicoverpa armigera.
Conclusion:
BT cotton has revolutionized cotton farming across the world by providing effective pest control and increasing yields. The different varieties of BT cotton have been developed to provide protection against different pests and to suit the needs of different regions. Farmers should carefully choose the variety of BT cotton that is best suited to their region and their pest problems. Overall, the adoption of BT cotton has provided substantial benefits to farmers and the environment.