The introduction of Bt-transgenic cotton (Ingard) should lead to an overall reduction in insecticide use. increased survival of predators should follow, which will help to reduce outbreaks of secondary pests, such as spider mites and aphids. Paradoxically, reduced pesticide use may increase problems with minds and their control with broad-spectrum insecticides could reduce beneficial numbers and increase secondary pest outbreaks. Synthetic insecticides will remain a key component of cotton production for the foreseeable future and this also has implications for secondary pests in Bt-cotton. These and other possibilities for the transgenic era are discussed below. What actually occurs will depend on many factors, such as the price of transgenic technology, cotton prices, rainfall, refuge requirements, insecticide resistance and so on. Crystal ball gazing is a risky business - in 10 years' time my thoughts will appear either prophetic or pathetic. Nevertheless, I have tried to analyse the likely pest status of secondary pests in the transgenic era and to indicate some of the measures that could reduce or deal with potential problems now and in the future.