We propose to generate transgenic Tifton85 bermudagrass and seashore paspalum with stable expression of a synthetic Bt gene that was previously shown to cause FAW toxicity and evaluate transgenic plants under laboratory and field conditions for FAW resistance. Therefore, we propose to express Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) Berliner delta-endotoxin in these grasses via transformation. Additionally, the proposed research will provide valuable information on the response of the rice strain of FAW to Bt transgenics, which to date has beenĮxtremely limited. Therefore, genetic engineering offers an extremely viable and attractive alternative for incorporating insect resistance into these valuable grasses. Traditional breeding for FAW resistance in seashore paspalum is hampered by the poor fertility of the grass, and impossible for Tifton 85 because it is sterile. However, both grasses suffer from susceptibility to FAW. Tifton85 is a durable, high quality forage bermudagrass. Seashore paspalum SeaIsle1 is a warm season turfgrass that due to its salt tolerance has an enormous potential for coastal areas of the Caribbean and Southern US. Smith), via genetic engineering for Bt endotoxin expression. Project Methods The overall goal of this project is to produce transgenic turf and forage grasses that are resistant to the rice strain of fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J.

Seashore paspalum infloresence