Laboratory tests with Lepidoptera to assess non-target effects of Bt maize pollen: analysis of current studies and recommendations for a standardised design

Environmental Sciences Europe

Table 2 Summary of relevant parameters to be considered and standardised in laboratory tests to assess Bt maize effects on non-target Lepidoptera larvae

Category	Parameters	Relevant aspects
Bt	Maize pollen	Storage; bioactivity; quantification; characterisation^a
Bt	Synthetic toxin	Storage; bioactivity; quantification; characterisation^a
Matrix (diet)	Plant material	Suitability; application; homogeneity
Matrix (diet)	Artificial diet	Suitability; ingredients; homogeneity
Test species	Species selection	Origin; appropriateness
Controls	Positive and negative control	Check of experimental conditions; bioactivity of Bt
Exposure	Magnitude	Determination EEC (expected environmental concentration); worst case; dose–response
	Duration	Appropriate period; acute vs. chronic exposure
	Ingestion	Verification, quantification
Experiments	Endpoints	Lethal and sublethal effects; larval and adult data
	Observation period	Appropriate time
	Statistical power	Sample size; detection of effects