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Progress in the commercialisation of bionematicides

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Abstract

In the last few years, there have been numerous developments in the commercialisation of bionematicides. Here we briefly review the commercial status of four key active ingredients backed by large international companies and which are, or are likely to become widely available soon. We also identify research priorities. While scientists have intensively researched Pasteuria spp. and Purpureocillium lilacinus as potential nematicides, little research has been done on Bacillus firmus and Myrothecium verrucaria fermentation products. Conversely, a survey of the trade press suggests that these latter two agents, particularly B. firmus, are the most widely used. There is a clear need to further understand the ecology and mode of action of B. firmus when used as a bionematicide. Furthermore, while all active ingredients have proven efficacy in laboratory and/or small plot trials, there is a paucity of independent data showing product efficacy in target markets.

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Acknowledgments

Funding for this work was provided by the Australian Grains Research and Development Corporation and by the New Zealand Ministry of Science and Innovation’s Microbial Products Programme. We would also like to thank Prof. Alison Stewart of Lincoln University for supporting this endeavour.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Ruakura Research Centre, AgResearch, Hamilton, New Zealand

    Michael J. Wilson

  2. Lincoln Research Centre, AgResearch, Private Bag 4749, Christchurch, 8140, New Zealand

    Trevor A. Jackson

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  1. Michael J. Wilson
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  2. Trevor A. Jackson
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Correspondence to Michael J. Wilson.

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Handling Editor: Ralf Ehlers.

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Wilson, M.J., Jackson, T.A. Progress in the commercialisation of bionematicides. BioControl 58, 715–722 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10526-013-9511-5

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