Solution
A highly effective and environmentally friendly method to control the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda), a pest that causes severe losses to Brazilian farmers.
What is the technological basis of this solution?
The technology is based on the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). Through a detailed study of the pest’s egg structures, researchers identified a way to introduce Bt and eliminate the embryo before hatching.
What is innovative about it?
Unlike existing methods, which act only at the larval stage—when significant damage has already occurred—this new approach developed by INCT NanoAgro researchers targets the embryonic phase, eliminating the pest before it harms the crop.
Who could benefit from this solution?
The technology serves corn producers broadly, including organic farmers. It also creates added value for companies aiming to deliver effective and sustainable solutions to the agricultural sector, with no risks to farmers or the environment.
What is the market potential?
In 2024, Brazil became the world’s largest exporter of corn, with over 56 million tons exported and revenues surpassing US$13.65 billion.
The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperdais the most destructive pest affecting Brazilian cornfields, causing annual losses estimated at R$10 billion, and threatening 30% to 50% of the country’s corn crops.
What are the key differentiators of the technology?
“The use of bioinsecticides such as Bt offers significant advantages over conventional insecticides, as it preserves ecosystem services, including pollinators and natural enemies of pests. Furthermore, Bt provides a novel and safe solution compatible with organic agriculture, allowing farmers to achieve greater added value for their products.”
Ricardo Polanczyk, UNESP Jaboticabal, lead researcher
What is its technology readiness level?
TRL 4 | | Applied Research or Experimental Development (Frascati Manual)
Business Opportunity
The technology is patented and available for licensing or collaboration with companies interested in environmentally sustainable strategies to control the fall armyworm.
Interested parties are invited to contact INCT via this link.
Researchers and institutions involved
Research team: Prof. Ricardo A. Polanczyk (UNESP Jaboticabal); Fabiana Santana Machado, PhD candidate in Agronomy (Agricultural Entomology), FCAV/UNESP; Edimar Peterlini, PhD candidate in Agronomy (Agricultural Entomology), FCAV/UNESP; Prof. Helio Conte (State University of Maringá); Prof. Bruno Daquila (State University of Maringá).
