Combining sterile insect releases with refuge areas to delay the evolution of resistance to Bt sugarcane: an agent-based modeling approach.

The strategic use of refuge areas is a well-known method for delaying the development of pest resistance to Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) crop. A lesser-known method to control against resistance development is sterile insect releases. In this article, an agent-based simulation model is used to test the effectiveness of combining the use of Bt sugarcane, refuge areas, and sterile insect releases as an integrated strategy against Eldana saccharina Walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) infestation and resistance development.