Syngenta expands Cropwise tools in Brazil, offers solution for digital nematode diagnosis

Syngenta, a global multinational leader in agricultural solutions, recently announced the launch of Nema Digital, a commercial digital solution for diagnosing nematode infestations in soybean crops through analyses of photographs taken by satellite. The Cropwise tool, Syngenta's digital agriculture platform, aims to increase efficiency in decision-making in the field, minimizing the losses caused by soil diseases to Brazilian soybean farmers.

Nematodes are microscopic parasites that live in the soil, feed on plant roots and open pathways for fungal infections, affecting plant health, crop quality and yield.

A survey carried out in 2021 by Syngenta, in partnership with the consultancy, Agroconsult, and the Brazilian Society of Nematology, showed worrying data about the damage and losses caused by nematodes and initial diseases on Brazilian crops. According to the survey, losses of R$65 billion are estimated due to problems caused by nematode attacks on various crops. In soybean cultivation alone, the current loss is already R$27.7 billion, meaning that for every 10 harvests, an entire harvest is lost to nematodes.

Under this scenario, Nema Digital acts as a tool that uses artificial intelligence (AI) and computational modeling to track, through a historical database of the latest harvests, areas where and moments when infestations can occur. Based on this process, the genera of nematodes present can be identified and the best form of control can be used in affected areas.

"This is an important novelty for identifying areas affected by nematodes. Through it, we enable soybean farmers to have a better understanding of the dynamics of the threat to their crops. Therefore, we are able to precisely point out the best strategy to control this hidden enemy, avoiding losses in soybean farming," said Mariana Calaça, New Business Coordinator at Syngenta Digital.

Using the new technology, it is possible to conduct an analysis of the last four harvests and generate maps to define soil collection points for data analysis. Furthermore, the tool makes it possible to monitor progress throughout the harvest and analyze whether management was carried out correctly, preparing the territory for monitoring next year. 

Among other benefits, Nema Digital allows producers to identify the location of the problem, direct soil and root collections to treat each plot according to individual requirements, and implement the best management.

"Syngenta aims to develop innovations to support farmers, whether large or small, in overcoming challenges in the field. Nema Digital is a technology capable of generating reliable data, providing flexibility in combating these soil pests,″ Calaça said.

Cropwise in Brazil

Syngenta's digital agriculture platform brings together solutions for producers to enable them to connect agronomic data and make assertive decisions, supported by accurate data about their crops. Currently, Cropwise, offers eight digital solutions, is present in more than 20 countries, and covers 80 million hectares globally. In Brazil, in addition to Nema Digital, the platform offers the Cropwise Imagery and Cropwise Protector tools. 

Imagery is a tool that helps farmers with management, by identifying which area requires immediate attention, optimizing time and monitoring crop health anywhere and at any time. The technology also contributes to harvest planning by providing algorithms and satellite images that give producers a complete and historical view of their farms, including helping in identifying threats invisible to the naked eye, such as nematodes, and combat them before the start of planting. 

Protector is a solution with several features that allow for more flexible and assertive decisions, providing rapid management of operations and end-to-end monitoring of crops. The software assists producers in controlling crop management through simple-to-use technology and easy access to data, which supports decision-making. Maps, graphs and analyzes are generated from monitoring information and offer insights for actions quickly and accurately, reducing the risk of loss of productivity in the field.

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