Abstract
Diabrotica virgifera, the western corn rootworm, is a major maize pest which is now spreading into central Germany. This project aims to enhance biological control strategies against D. virgifera, by focusing on elite maize hybrids, and the identification of plant alleles and regulatory genes that influence the production of (E)-β-caryophyllene (EBC), a sesquiterpene emitted by damaged roots that attracts predatory nematodes. Using molecular tools, field assays, and breeding approaches, we will evaluate and improve the inducible EBC signal in selected hybrids. This work will support the use of sustainable, pesticide-free maize protection through optimized plant-nematode interactions.
Jörg 
Claudia
Team
PIs: Prof. Dr. Jörg Degenhardt // Dr. Claudia Schaff // Janik Telleria Marloth
PhD candidate: Niloufar Ashrafi
Lab: Pharmaceutical Biotechnology