A Technique for Measuring Certain Aspects of Antibiosis in Cotton to the Boll Weevil1

Abstract

A technique has been described to measure certain components of antibiosis against the boll weevil. It utilizes lyophilized cotton-square powder as the basic ingredient. The technique allows for rapid evaluation of different lines of cotton for antibiosis. It was shown to be much less variable than field measurements for the same properties. It minimizes the morphological and nutritional aspects of various square sizes as a factor in antibiosis. By using the technique antibiosis was found to be present in Gossypium thurberi, which resulted in smaller weevils and a longer developmental period. The limitations of the techniques were discussed. The technique is believed to have application with other insects and crop plants in host-plant resistance programs.