A Suit of Armor for Biopesticides

Growers across the country use beneficial fungi and nematodes (small round worms) to safely and effectively kill pests. However, these environmentally friendly biopesticides can be less effective when exposed to UV radiation during their application.

ARS scientists in Byron, GA, in collaboration with Israeli partners, developed a new formulation to protect beneficial fungi and nematodes from UV radiation. The formulation coats each fungal spore and each nematode worm with nanoparticles (particles of matter 1 to 100 nanometres in diameter). This coating provides them with a UV-resistant suit of armor. The research received two Binational Agriculture Research Development awards, and a patent on this new technology is pending.

Related Information

Publication: Enhanced Biological Control Potential of the Entomopathogenic Nematode, Steinernema Carpocapsae, Applied With a Protective Gel Formulation

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Topic

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