WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - The milder winters and longer growing seasons predicted under global warming forecasts could boost populations of crop-munching insects in the Midwest's corn country over the coming decades, new research suggests. Purdue University scientists said their findings could mean lower yields for corn and other crops -- and higher pest control costs for farmers -- as the climate warms up.
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - The milder winters and longer
growing seasons predicted under global warming forecasts could
boost populations of crop-munching insects in the Midwest's corn
country over the coming decades, new research suggests.
Purdue University scientists said their findings could mean
lower yields for corn and other crops -- and higher pest control
costs for farmers -- as the climate warms up.
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The researchers examined how global warming could impact
winter's lowest readings and lengthen the growing season across the
continental U.S. based on what the study's lead author said is a
conservative climate change model.
They then used that data to determine the regions where four
insects that feed on corn and other crops could survive until
spring, based on forecasts of warmer winter readings.
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