Jan. 31, 2025
Embrapa Cotton and the Goiano Institute of Agriculture (IGA) conducted a comprehensive network study to evaluate the effectiveness of various bionematicides in cotton cultivation.
The research, carried out by the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation, involved collaboration with renowned nematologists from five Brazilian states (Bahia, Goiás, Paraná, Mato Grosso, and Mato Grosso do Sul).
The study focused on reducing the population of the phytoparasitic nematodes Pratylenchus brachyurus and Rotylenchulus reniformis and assessing their impact on cotton productivity. Among the bionematicides evaluated, the AUBA technology, applied in the planting furrow, stood out as the most effective solution.
AUBA is a bionematicide developed by the Brazilian company NOOA Agricultural Science and Technology, using an exclusive strain of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (strain CN-307). According to the manufacturer, the technology works by restoring the balance of the production environment, ensuring safe root development, and contributing to the recovery of the crop's productive potential.
In the Embrapa Cotton study, AUBA demonstrated the highest reduction in phytoparasitic nematode populations, both in the roots and in the soil. Additionally, AUBA achieved the best productivity results, with an average yield of 268 arrobas per hectare across the seven locations evaluated – an increase of 36 arrobas compared to the control group and eight arrobas above the second-best competing treatment.
Phytoparasitic nematodes represent a silent but devastating threat to Brazilian agriculture. These microscopic organisms parasitize plant roots, compromising their development and causing damage that goes far beyond what is visible. By attacking the roots, nematodes create entry points for pathogens, such as soil fungi, exacerbating problems that can lead to necrosis and rot.
"The impacts caused by phytoparasitic nematodes on the production process are significant and deserve attention," said Lucas Carvalho, Technical Education and Training Coordinator at NOOA. According to him, the damage includes "uneven growth, reduced water and nutrient absorption capacity, decreased productivity, and, in more severe cases, the economic unfeasibility of agricultural areas."
The Brazilian Society of Nematology estimates that the losses caused by these parasites exceed R$35 billion annually. Carvalho added that, in Brazil, phytoparasitic nematodes widely affect economically essential crops, underscoring the need for practical tools to protect roots and ensure soil health.
"Meeting the growing demand for food must be addressed through agricultural practices that balance high productivity and environmental sustainability. In this context, adopting good agricultural practices – such as preventive measures, crop rotation, the use of less susceptible varieties, and biological protection tools – becomes essential. Among these tools, bioinputs stand out as indispensable allies. In addition to helping manage phytoparasitic nematodes, bioinputs contribute to soil regeneration, making it more resilient and productive," Carvalho said in conclusion.
(Editing by Leonardo Gottems, reporter for AgroPages)
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