The information available on the genetics, breeding, and utilization of host plant resistance to 14 of the most important species of maize stem-borers complex, their biology, and the damage done to the crop is presented.
The components necessary for implementing a programme for breeding for resistance to stem-borers in maize include: a colony of the pest(s), the capability to mass rear them, uniform artificial infestation methods, an array of the available maize germplasm or related species, rating scales and evaluation methods that permit identification of genetic resistance, knowledge of screening and breeding methods, and the personnel and resources to execute the programme.
The paper having emphasized the importance of each component, concludes with a discussion of several HPR programmes and the breeding methods being used in various areas of the world, to develop and utilize resistance to one or more maize pests, as a proven method for gaining increased management control over these pests.