Koppert presents main biological solutions at Siconbiol 2023

Koppert presented the outcomes of its main biological solutions during the 17th Biological Control Symposium (Siconbiol 2023), which was specially covered by AgroPages.

During the event, researchers and company employees showcased the biopesticides  Terranem (Steinernema carpocapsae), Octane (Isaria fumosorosea) and Caravan (Bacillus pumilus).

Terranem is a bioinsecticide formulated with entomopathogenic nematodes (Steinernema carpocapsae), indicated for controlling sugarcane boll weevil (Sphenophorus levis).

″This is an innovation in Brazilian agriculture. We call Terranem the good nematode, as it controls an important pest in sugarcane fields sustainably and efficiently, and without the risk of harming plantations,″ said Marcelino Borges de Brito, agronomic development manager at Koppert Brasil.

In its formulation, Terranem features the most advanced technologies, as it creates ideal conditions for the nematodes to act, in addition to excellent agronomic applicability in the field.

″Studies show excellent results after the product’s application, drastically reducing the population of the pest and, consequently, the percentage of stalks attacked, making it an excellent strategy for managing this insect, which has been causing severe damage to sugarcane,″ Borges de Brito said.

The biological insecticide, Octane (Isaria fumosorosea), is intended for managing corn leafhoppers, because it has a prolonged action in the field with a good residual effect, due to the horizontal contamination of new generations, as well as migratory insects, in addition to not causing pest resistance.

″The results are excellent, with up to 85% efficiency in controlling the leafhopper, due to the product’s ability to control both adults and nymphs,″ Borges de Brito added.

During the event, Caravan (Bacillus pumilus), a microbiological fungicide used to control foliar fungal diseases, was also presented.

According to Koppert, Caravan is an ″excellent strategy for managing major diseases because of its bioprotective effect. It inhibits the germination of pathogen spores, preventing infection in plants.″

In addition, Caravan releases a diverse range of metabolites that will induce the plant to resist against major foliar diseases.

It is, therefore, a great ally of producers, as it contributes to resistance management and provides greater profitability.

Siconbiol is promoted by the Entomological Society of Brazil (SEB) every two years, and is considered the such largest event in Latin America.

During the event, participants had the opportunity to exchange information with the various professionals who work in the biological control of pests and diseases in Brazil and other parts of the world.

The latest advances in various areas of biological control were discussed.

(Editing by Leonardo Gottems, reporter for AgroPages)