Developed in Brazil: Fungicide based on essential oils against Asian rust

Researchers at Linax, based in the interior of the Brazilian state of São Paulo, have developed a fungicide based on essential oils. With low environmental impact and high economic potential, the fungicide is recommended against pests that affect Brazil’s soybean crops. The solution consists of oils extracted from different plants, encapsulated by natural polymers. The active ingredient is released slowly and gradually, extending its period of action in the crop and reducing the risk of these pests developing any resistance to the product.

Prototypes of the technology were tested against the fungus Phakopsora pachyrhizi, the causal agent of Asian rust, one of the most severe diseases affecting soybean cultivation in the country. The pathogen attacks the plant's leaves, affecting its ability to perform photosynthesis and produce healthy grains. If not properly controlled, it can render up to 90% of the plantation unviable, resulting in losses reaching billions of reals.

The solution developed by Linax showed an effect equivalent to Brazil’s most commonly used fungicides in combating this pest. "The combined application of half the dose of our solution plus half the dose of conventional fungicides showed greater efficacy than those conventionally applied in isolation," said agronomist Nilson Borlina Maia, co-owner of Linax.

"This means that it would be possible to reduce the use of conventional fungicides, which are harmful to human and animal health and the environment, by adding a dose of our essential oil-based solution," he assessed.

The technology results from a partnership between Linax and Grupo Santa Clara, an agricultural inputs company based in Ribeirão Preto, in the interior of São Paulo. The group recently announced the incorporation of Linax into Santa Clara Agrociência, its spin-off focusing on biopesticides.

Linax's fungicide is expected to be launched later this year. According to Maia, the company intends to use the strategy against fungi that cause diseases in other crops. They are also working on environmentally sustainable solutions to enhance the effectiveness of biological pesticides. "We are developing a project with Unesp (São Paulo State University) to encapsulate fungi and bacteria used in pest and disease control affecting crops to protect them from ultraviolet rays and increase their viability and effectiveness," the agronomist said.

(Editing by Leonardo Gottems, reporter for AgroPages)

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