Monsanto applies to APVMA for approval for a new GM cotton variety

Monsanto plans to release the new GM cotton variety called Bollgard III that is resistant to pests such as the cotton boll worm in the 2016-17 cotton season if it receives approval from the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA).

Monsanto entomologist Kristen Knight said they were introducing a third toxin, or active ingredient known as Vip3A, to help ensure the longevity of the technology.

"That means that each of those toxins has a different mode of action, or kills the caterpillar in three different ways," she said.

"So if one of the toxins hasn't quite killed the caterpillar if it's had its bite of the leaf the other two toxins are there to make sure the caterpillar dies."

Currently resistance to Bollgard II is managed through restricting planting windows, pupae busting and planting refuge crops.

Ms Knight said she expected the resistance management plan (RMP) for the crop would change, if Bollgard III was released commercially.

"While we know the new protein will make the technology more robust we need to balance that against the risks of resistance developing."