INCT develops bioinsecticide against embryonic-stage Spodoptera frugiperda

Brazilian scientists at INCT Nano Agro (National Institute of Science and Technology in Nanotechnology for Sustainable Agriculture) have developed and patented a bioinsecticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) bacteria that can control fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda).

The biological insecticide, which combines bacterial application with nanotechnology, is distinguished by its ability to control the pest in its embryonic stage. According to researchers, this enables pest management before crop damage occurs, unlike existing methods that only target the larval stage.

In 2024, Brazil became the world's largest corn exporter, with over 56 million tons of grain—from the 2022-2023 harvest—leaving Brazilian ports primarily bound for the United States, China, and the European Union. However, the more than US$13.65 billion generated by these transactions faces a threat from Spodoptera frugiperda, Brazil's primary corn pest.

According to the latest data, this caterpillar causes annual losses of approximately R$10 billion to producers, potentially impacting 30% to 50% of infested crops. INCT Nano Agro comprises scientists from São Paulo State University "Júlio de Mesquita Filho" (UNESP) and the State University of Maringá (UEM).

According to Prof. Ricardo Polanczyk from UNESP Jaboticabal, the development of bioinsecticides was made possible through a detailed study of caterpillar egg structures. Following this investigation, researchers identified a method to introduce Bt and eliminate the developing embryo.

"Using bioinsecticides like Bt offers significant advantages over conventional insecticides, as it preserves ecosystem services such as pollinators and the pest's natural enemies. Additionally, Bt presents a novel solution and is compatible with organic agriculture, allowing farmers to obtain higher value for their products," the researcher stated.

INCT NanoAgro

The National Institute of Science and Technology in Nanotechnology for Sustainable Agriculture announces its use of Brazilian biodiversity components and their ecological interactions to develop integrated systems for pest and disease control, nutrition, and plant growth stimulation. 

According to the Institute, the goal is to increase "agricultural productivity while considering environmental and human health safety, establishing the country's leadership in the global scenario."

The research team includes, alongside Prof. Ricardo A. Polanczyk, researchers Fabiana Santana Machado, a doctoral candidate in Agronomy (Agricultural Entomology) at FCAV/UNESP; Edimar Peterlini, a doctoral candidate in Agronomy (Agricultural Entomology) at FCAV/UNESP; Helio Conte, a Professor at the State University of Maringá; and Bruno Daquila, a Professor at the State University of Maringá.

(Editing by Leonardo Gottems, reporter for AgroPages)