Dr. Blanco is continuing the previous work on the BT Resistance monitoring program that tests the effectiveness of Bacillus thuringiensis toxins, but now with increased, more accurate diagnosis dosages and colonies for tobacco budworm and cotton bollworm to check for resistance. Cooperators from many states, and Mexico, contribute insects to the program.
He is collaborating with the USDA in College Station, TX and INIFAP in Tamaulipas, Mexico to see if alternative host plants increase the efficacy of Bt cotton refuges using velvetleaf and garbanzo beans to increase the number of tobacco budworm and bollworm.