Syngenta launches a new biopesticide CERTANO in Brazil for sugarcane

 After dozens of pilot tests in sugarcane fields in various regions of Brazil, Syngenta successfully developed and launched the microbiological formulation CERTANO. The product is Syngenta's first biological product for sugarcane cultivation and has the function of a lineicide, fungicide and growth promotion, providing a stable effect that is fast and lasting. The official launch of CERTANO was recently held in Riberan Preto, Sao Paulo, with more than 200 participants, including researchers, cane growers and sugar factory representatives.

CERTANO contains Bacillus velezensis, a multifunctional microbe that fights nematodes and diseases common to many sugarcane crops. Fernando Godinho, a professor and researcher at the Federal Institute of Goiano, points out that the product's "triad" function works quickly and for a long time. Its metabolites mainly inhibit the germination of nematodes eggs and larvae, as well as fungal spores, so the product is both a biological nematocide and a biological fungicide." According to Godinho, Bacillus velezensis can induce plant hormone pathways that promote root development and above-ground growth in sugarcane.

"Nematode studies in recent years in collaboration with the Brazilian Nematode Society have shown that these pests can reduce crop yield by up to 16 percent per season, in addition to shortening crop life," Godinho said. The product can effectively control various harmful nematodes in sugarcane field for the whole sugarcane growth cycle.

 Renato Pirola, Syngenta's marketing manager, shared technical research at the conference, saying that failure to control nematodes in Brazil could cost as much as 143 billion reais over the next decade. If nematode control is not proper, the life span of sugarcane field will be shortened, which will cause great economic losses. Syngenta has therefore launched products to combat this hidden pest, addressing different important control areas such as innovative chemical and biological products, diversified control strategies and digital technologies to assist farmers."

 Leandro Bessa, head of Syngenta's crop protection portfolio, said: "This new product can be used almost throughout the year and is physically and chemically compatible with other products. This launch marks Syngenta's entry into the field of biologics for sugarcane."