HJBI launches Keyun PxGV insecticidal virus against Diamondback Moth in China

Chinese biopesticide company Henan Jiyuan Baiyun Industry Co., Ltd (HJBI), a leading manufacturer of a broad range of baculovirus-based insecticides, has announced the launch of the biopesticide Keyun PxGV insecticidal virus in China for the control of the diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella), a major pest in cruciferous vegetables.

The active ingredient of Keyun PxGV is a naturally occurring granulovirus that infects diamondback moth larvae without affecting the environment. Diamondback moth larvae feeding on vegetables can be infected by Keyun PxGV by ingesting the virus particles deposited on the plant. An infected early-instar larva dies within 3–4 days as the virus replicates quickly within its body, destroying its internal organs. When it dies, its body disintegrates, releasing billions of new virus particles that may then be ingested by other larvae of the same or later generations feeding in the same area. Keyun PxGV has been successfully used by major vegetable growers in several provinces of China, such as Zhejiang, Fujian, Henan, Guangdong, and Yunan, to control the diamondback moth in cruciferous vegetables.

"The diamondback moth is a global insect that attacks cruciferous vegetables, such as the cauliflower, lettuce, and cabbage, causing significant economic loss,” said Dr. Feng Zhengqun, product development manager at HJBI. “Due to the misuse of chemicals, this insect has developed high resistance to many synthetic chemicals, even to Bt in some regions. A biopesticide like Keyun PxGV, however, employs a novel mode of action that’s highly effective in controlling the diamondback moth. Numerous field trials have proven that Keyun PxGV has more than 80% efficacy in controlling this insect. Due to its feature of zero residue, the product not only fits the model of organic farming but can also be incorporated into resistance management programs.” 

So far, HJBI is the only company in the world that can manufacture the Plutella xylostella granulovirus. Following its successful registration and market development in China, many field trials in other countries, including Thailand, Malaysia, Israel, and South Africa, have been launched.