The term 'genetics' encompasses a group of disciplines which study aspects of evolution. the first of these, molecular genetics, examines DNA, the raw material of evolution, and its organisation into genes.

The adult stages of the two Heliothis species found most abundantly in the summer cropping areas of Australia (H. armigera and .H. punctigera) are easily distinguishable and have been so for some time.

The cotton bollworm, Heliothis armiger is a very important cotton pest in Australia.

A contribution was made to the last ACGRA conference on "The duration.of insecticidal activity against Heliothis larvae on cotton".

Numerous studies on the effect of the nectariless gene on insect pests of cotton have been carried out both overseas and in Australia.