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SmartStax PRO®: All-In Corn Rootworm Defense

SmartStax PRO® delivers multiple modes of action built to fight high-pressure corn rootworm.
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6 Modes of Action for Layered Corn Rootworm Defense

SmartStax PRO® combines proven Bt trait technology with RNAi Technology to deliver six modes of action total, with three for corn rootworm and three for above-ground pests. Multiple modes of action give your fields layered defense, with each technology working differently to help you protect against multiple pest threats.

Reduced Root-Feeding With Two Bt Traits

Icon showing a corn rootworm inside a target, representing pest defense.

When rootworm larvae feed on the root, two built-in Bt traits are activated. These traits disrupt the larvae’s digestive system, causing them to stop feeding and eventually die.

Unique Protection With RNAi Technology

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Bayer’s RNAi Technology introduces a new mode of action. Like Bt traits, RNAi Technology is also activated during the feeding process, working to block the production of an essential protein rootworms rely on for survival. Because it works differently than Bt traits, it broadens protection and strengthens the defense system as a whole.

Keep Above-Ground Pests In Check

Diagram of a corn plant highlighting aboveground and belowground protection.

SmartStax PRO® uses three stacked proteins to target European and southwestern corn borers, fally armyworm, corn earworm, and black cutworm.

Icon showing a corn rootworm inside a target, representing pest defense.
Diagram showing 3 above and 3 below modes of action for corn pest control.

Slow Down Trait Breakdown

If you have heavy corn pest pressure, SmartStax PRO® protects your long-term trait investment and enhances corn yield by attacking pests from every angle. 6 total modes of action can help prolong trait breakdown and prevent corn rootworm populations from developing resistance.

Agronomist in a cornfield holding up a large root mass to check root health.

Carrying the Legacy of SmartStax Corn Trait Technology Forward

Building on the proven legacy of SmartStax®, RNAi Technology enhances defense against corn rootworm, adding another mode of action to interrupt corn rootworm protein production.

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore SmartStax PRO® Corn Hybrids From Bayer’s Trusted Seed Brands

DEKALB® Seed

Help protect yield potential with strong defense against corn rootworm with DEKALB SmartStax PRO® corn hybrids.

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DEKALB® Seed
Channel® Seed

Talk to your Channel SeedPro to get personalized insights on planting Channel® SmartStax PRO® corn seed hybrids on your acres.

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Channel® Seed
Find a Dealer

Work with the partner closest to you to find the right SmartStax PRO corn hybrids for your operation.

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How RNAi Strengthens SmartStax PRO®

With a unique mode of action that complements Bt proteins, RNAi Technology delivers strong corn rootworm protection, defending roots from the ground up. 

Manage Corn Rootworm Pressure

From scouting to crop rotation and trait selection, help protect yield potential with the right management. 

How To Recognize Corn Rootworm Feeding Damage

Recognizing corn rootworm feeding is key to keeping your operation running smoothly. See how you can understand the impact of heavy infestations. 

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Corn Rootworm Resources

As pest pressures continue to evolve, especially corn rootworm, take a look at what Bayer is doing to help farmers stay ahead of this threat.

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Find Your Trait Tool

Still unsure about the right trait for your fields? Take our quick quiz to discover which of our innovative corn traits might be the right fit of protection for you.

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*Based on Bayer 2023 Market Development Field Testing Network data generated in corn growing geographies over 432 locations, 797 comparisons of leading Bayer Crop Science SmartStax PRO® with RNAi Technology products to national competitor products containing similar crop protection traits as of 2023.

Disclaimer

ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW GRAIN MARKETING AND ALL OTHER STEWARDSHIP PRACTICES AND PESTICIDE LABEL DIRECTIONS.