Modeling evolution of behavioral resistance by an insect to crop rotation

Crop rotation has traditionally been a valuable method for managing pests, but now a serious insect pest of maize (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeCo nte [Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae]) has developed behavioral resistance to rot ation. A simple model of adult behavior and population genetics can explain how this resistance may have developed. This general model indicates that evolution may be caused by selection on a single gene for adult movement an d that behavioral resistance only develops at high levels of rotation (> 80 % of plant landscape). In less diverse landscapes, crop rotation selects fo r the expansion of host preferences (polyphagy) by adults. More diverse lan dscapes may delay the evolution of resistance to crop rotation depending on the fitness costs and the nature of the genetic system.