The use of improved varieties and hybrids combined with appropriate agronomic practices has helped to reduce crop losses due to pests and diseases (Oerke 2006; Blanco et al. 2014; Vargas-Parada 2014). However, in spite of these improvements, yield losses of up to 31 % of maize production have been reported due to pests (insects, weeds) and diseases (Oerke 2006). In Mexico, where approximately 6–8 million hectares are planted to corn annually, loss in maize production due to insects, diseases, and other pests is estimated as high as 30 % (Oerke 2006). A recent survey in Mexico documented that 3000 tons of insecticide active ingredients are required each year to reduce damage by fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda Smith), corn earworm (Helicoverpa zea Boddie), and cutworms (Agrotis ipsilon Hufnagel) (Blanco et al. 2014). Mexico’s current use of pesticides is the highest per unit area in North America, at 4.5 kg ha−1 compared to 2.2 and 1 kg ha−1 for the USA and Canada, respectively (Stokstad 2013). The task to increase maize production in Mexico requires the use and adoption of technologies and best practices of modern agriculture (Vargas-Parada 2014). These include conventional improved seed, GM IR and HT varieties with higher yield potential, and best management practices for the control of insects, pathogens, and weeds and tolerance to abiotic stresses (Oerke 2006; Vargas-Parada 2014). Furthermore, greater adoption of integrated pest management (IPM) systems combined with the development and availability of pest-resistant maize varieties should reduce the use of conventional pesticides and help Mexico to reduce annual corn grain imports (Blanco et al. 2014).