New multi-site biological controls end-of-cycle soybean diseases

By Leonardo Gottems, Reporter for AgroPages

Brazilian soy has been facing problems caused by so-called “End-of-Cycle Diseases” (DFC), which can cause crop losses of up to 100%. According to specialists, these diseases include leaf blight (Cercospora kikuchii), brown spot (Septoria glycines) and target spot (Corynespora cassiicola).

Under this scenario, Biotrop revealed, to AgroPages, the registration of its microbiological fungicide, Bombardeiro, has been approved. The product, with offers multisite action due to its formulation, causes shock and residual effects in affected plants.

Its multiple modes of action are key to controlling these diseases, due to their production of fungicidal metabolites (antibiosis), together with the inhibition of conidia germination and rapid phyllosphere colonization. In addition, its advanced composition, which includes Bacillus velezensis, Bacillus pumilus and Bacillus subtilis, jointly work in the production of biofilm on colonized surfaces and promotes induced systemic resistance, therefore, protecting plants and promoting crop growth.

For Jonas Hipólito, Marketing and R&D Director at Biotrop, Bombardeiro is a powerful new tool for farmers and a big bet by BIOTROP to further demonstrate the value of biological inputs in agriculture. “It is a practical solution, with a stable, liquid formulation, low dosage, and high efficiency in the handling DFCs. We were able to manage not only diseases but also interact with plants and other fungicides, ensuring productivity and profitability increases for our customers.”

Biotrop conducted dozens of assessments at various research institutions in the 2019/20 harvest. Ederson Santos, biologist and portfolio manager at the company, said the product is superior to its main agrochemical competitors in terms of controlling DFCs, producing higher yields than conventional chemical multisites.

Bombardeiro delivered 52% stain control, identical to its direct competitor. “Observing the health of the plant, Bomberdeiro was superior, on average, in relation to the control,” Santos added.

The positive results also included productivity, with evaluations resulting in up to nine bags per hectare, 13% higher in soybean productivity. The tests obtained 79 sc/ha with Bombardeiro, 77 sc/ha with the direct chemical competitor, and 70 sc/ha with the control.

The fungicide also contains a protective additive that promotes better adhesion and more efficient spread in the leaf system. “This additive is important, as it protects microorganisms from the effects of the sun (UV rays) and makes Bacillus develop faster, promoting better protection and enhancing residual shock,” Santos said in conclusion.