Genetically modified seeds and the decline of Monarch butterfly

 Decline of monarch butterflies overwintering in Mexico: is the migratory phenomenon at risk?

LINCOLN P. BROWER, ORLEY R. TAYLORERNEST H. WILLIAMs,DANIEL A. SLAYBACK,RAUL R. ZUBIETA,M. ISABEL RAMÍREZ

Insect Conservation and Diversity,Volume 5, Issue 2, pages 95–100, March 2012

 Latest research by researchers at the University of Minnesota and Iowa State University indicate that genetically engineered corn and soybeans could put the iconic monarch butterfly in peril. The total area in Mexico occupied by the eastern North American population of overwintering monarch butterflies has reached an all-time low.

 Scientists say the decline in abundance is statistically significant using both linear and exponential regression models. Continued land development and severe weather are aggravating the situation.

Between 1999 and 2010 when GMO crops became a rage with the farmers, the number of monarch eggs declined by an estimated 81 percent across the Midwest.  Scientists link the decline directly to milkweed, the host plant for the eggs and caterpillars of monarch butterfly that is facing near extermination owing to the widespread use of genetically modified seeds.

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