Numerical Modeling Reveals That Resistant Western Corn Rootworm Are Stronger Fliers than Their Susceptible Conspecifics

The hindwing geometry, aspect ratio, and numerical modeling of susceptible, Bt-Corn- and rotation-resistant western corn rootworm (WCR) wings was investigated. All variants had similar hindwing geometries and aspect ratio (AR: 6-7). These AR values correspond to wings suited to lower altitude flights of a shorter distance. These AR values are characteristic of wings that can carry heavier loads and are capable of precision flying. Numerical modeling using the finite element method (FEM) showed that the Bt-Corn-resistant and rotation-resistant WCR hindwings could potentially resist higher wind speeds with minimal deformations compared to conspecific susceptible WCR. Understanding the physiology and dispersal of resistant WCR enables a better understanding of how these variants spread their alleles across large scale agricultural landscapes. This may have important implications for integrated resistant management strategies for WCR.