1.   At the time, almost all common corn varieties were closely related, and virtually all were susceptible to the new parasite.

2.   If the corn varieties had been more genetically diverse, the corn problem might not have become an epidemic.

3.   Also, some Bt corn varieties are more toxic than others.

4.   Creaminess is a quality that depends less on corn variety than on the maturity of the ear when it is picked.

5.   That is about half of a respectable yield for the commercial corn varieties that end up in animal feed but a terrific result for a seed crop.

6.   DNA from genetically modified corn has found its way into native corn varieties growing in remote southern Mexico, heightening fears about the dangers of bioengineered crops.

7.   EPA officials say the corn varieties still on the market pose no health risks.

8.   Hybrids are created by growing two varieties of corn in the same field, planting rows of a female corn variety alongside a male variety used for pollination.

9.   It is the only Bt corn variety not approved for food use.

10.   Meanwhile, attorneys general in seven corn-growing states were asked to investigate whether Aventis and EPA properly controlled and regulated the corn variety.