"We have been producing biological pesticides based on baculoviruses for more than 30 years. Through our own research and development, as well as through equity investments and acquisitions, we are steadily expanding our portfolio, offering baculovirus-based biological insecticides, biofungicides, biostimulants and insecticides Based on specific fungi, virus products have a different effect, often on a specific pest, making them all the safer for the user, as well as for other insects and animals," says Julian Brandl from Andermatt Biocontrol AG.
"Since beneficial insects are often being used in the greenhouse, for example for pollination, our baculovirus products are particularly useful here, as many chemical synthetic agents are non-selective and target beneficial organisms in addition to the target organism."
"In Latin American agricultural economies, which are focussing more on exporting fruits and vegetables to Europe, Asia and North America, biological pest and disease control tools are playing an increasingly important role, due to stricter residue determination in the final product, as well as a rising demand for sustainably produced foodstuffs. We want to grow with this market development and offer producers meaningful and sustainable solutions."
Apple with codling moth damage
As an example, Brandl says: "In Argentina, many organic apples are grown for export to Europe and the US. We are offering Madex® to fight the codling moth (Cydia pomonella), one of the most important apple pests. It is an interesting and important market with a lot of potential," says Brandl.
Codling moth larva on apple
The focus of Andermatt Biocontrol's product range is primarily on pests that threaten global cultivation. "The codling moth is a good example, but there is also the cotton bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera): This annoying pest attacks everything from tomatoes and peppers to soy and corn."
Cotton bollworm (Helicoverpa armiger) on corn
Tutavir®, the latest product from Andermatt Biocontrol, combats the tomato leaf miner (Tuta absoluta), which was documented in South America at the beginning of the 20th century and imported into Europe in 2006. "This pest is spreading quickly and is rapidly becoming resistant to pest-borne control agents, and the tomato leaf miner is a major problem for the tomato industry." With Tutavir®, we provide producers with an effective, safe and sustainable product to control this pest." Brandl Tutavir®, like all our products, not only represents a sustainable alternative, but also prevents developing resistance, both in conventional and organic farming."
For more information:
Julian Brandl
Andermatt Biocontrol AG
Area and Product Manager
Stahlermatten 6
6146 Grossdietwil
Switzerland
Tel. +41 (0)62 917 50 05
julian.brandl@biocontrol.ch
www.andermattbiocontrol.com