Apr 27, 2020

BASF’s Nemasys C beneficial nematodes control codling moth

By controlling the mature and overwintering larvae populations, Nemasys C beneficial nematodes offer advanced biocontrol of one of the most important pests of apple and pear farms in North America.

Codling moth is most disruptive as newly-hatched larva. The larvae bury into the fruit and feed on the seeds. With Nemasys C beneficial nematodes, apple and pear growers can control larvae in the soil and base of thetrunk – a time when the larvae are very susceptible to nematode attack. Each large package of Nemasys C contains billions of the naturally occurring insect parasitic nematodes, Steinernema carpocapsae. Growers can simply apply the product to the soil and the base of the trunk, and the nematodes seek out, infect and kill the codling moth larvae.

“More and more growers see the benefits of biological pest control options, including helping to meet customers’ sustainability standards and their role in resistance management,” said Matt Spears, Business Development Specialist at BASF Agricultural Solutions. “Nemasys C beneficial nematodes are a valuable tool for apple and pear growers’ integrated pest management and insect resistance management programs.”

Nemasys C beneficial nematodes achieve high levels of control of mature and overwintering larvae of codling moths. While there is no pre-harvest interval and no re-entry interval, effects begin between 24 to 48 hours after application.

BASF designed the product to complement conventional and synthetic insecticides and its suggested use is in rotation with these types of products. “A well-designed IPM program incorporating Nemasys C beneficial nematodes and other insecticides can effectively manage target pest populations during key growth stages,” Spears said.

For more information about Nemasys C beneficial nematodes, visit betterplants.basf.us.

With a rapidly growing population, the world is increasingly dependent on our ability to develop and maintain sustainable agriculture and healthy environments. Working with farmers, agricultural professionals, pest management experts and others, it is our role to help make this possible. That’s why we invest in a strong R&D pipeline and broad portfolio, including seeds and traits, chemical and biological crop protection, soil management, plant health, pest control and digital farming. With expert teams in the lab, field, office and in production, we connect innovative thinking and down-to-earth action to create real world ideas that work – for farmers, society and the planet. In 2019, our division generated sales of €7.8 billion. For more information, please visit www.agriculture.basf.com or any of our social media channels.

BASF Corp., headquartered in Florham Park, New Jersey, is the North American affiliate of BASF SE, Ludwigshafen, Germany. BASF has more than 18,800 employees in North America and had sales of $18.4 billion in 2019. For more information about BASF’s North American operations, visit www.basf.com/us.

Codling moth larva infected with Nemasys beneficial nematodes. Photo: BASF