Biotech didn’t cause Monsanto pollination problems

Monsanto recently announced biotechnology traits were not responsible for the pollination problems in the summer grain production area this season.
Kobus Lindeque, South Africa area director for Monsanto Africa, said a survey of the fields determined the pollination variation resulted in an average yield reduction of some 25% in fields where the problems occurred.
“Three white maize hybrids DKC78-35R, DKC78-45BR, DKC77-71R showed variable pollination,” explained Lindeque. “The hybrids were produced by reversing the male and female. Cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) is passed to hybrid seed only through the female line. The female used in the breeding of these three hybrids contained CMS which was not previously detected.
“A combination of factors, including weather and farming practices, reduced pollen production still further.
“In future, the CMS-containing plant line won’t be used as a female in hybrid seed production. Monsanto has tested all white and yellow maize seed offered in the country, and the female line in question is the only one with CMS.”
Company representatives visited or telephoned some 400 farmers during the last few months. The initial indication was some 120 000ha were affected by the reduced pollination. However, detailed investigations have shown only about 75 000ha were affected to a greater or lesser degree by the pollination problem.
According to Lindeque, South African farmers will have the opportunity to buy a cost-effective blend of two high-yield white maize hybrids.
“This innovative, industry-leading combination successfully addresses the pollination issue and creates the high-yield potential demanded by farmers,” he explained.
Farmers will be offered the DKC78-45BR (80%) and DKC78-15B (20%) blend, which will deliver outstanding yield and superior insect protection. For weed control, along with the YieldGard Blend, Monsanto will also offer farmers a cost-effective acetanilide herbicide weed control system. – Annelie Coleman