UPL launches Zebu (Metarhizium anisopliae) in Brazil to combat pasture pests

 UPL announced the launch of Zebu, a biocide containing Metarhizium anisopliae, It is used against target pests including Mahanarva fimbriolata, Zulia entreriana and Deois flavopicta.

According to UPL, the strain in the product was developed by a research institute and has been applied to pasture with excellent results. The launch of Zebu enriches the product portfolio of its Natural Plant Protection business (NPP).

Giuliano Scalabrin, head of NPP Brazil, said: "The findings of the professional consulting firm show that the occurrence of the cicada has increased in a variety of crops in recent years. The situation is expected to worsen in 2024 as El Nino creates climate conditions conducive to the spread of such pests. Therefore, the introduction of Zebu to pastures will help prevent the loss of agricultural productivity." Scalabrin believes that the world is looking for more sustainable ways to produce agricultural products, especially in light of challenges such as El Nino caused by climate change, and such agricultural inputs should be used more frequently.

In addition to Zebu, UPL recently launched Tackler, a biocide containing Beauveria bassiana. These two products will expand UPL's market share in the important segment of biocides. Rogerio Castro, CEO of UPL Brazil, said: "The launch of these products is part of our goal to promote the use of natural solutions that, when combined with conventional pesticides, enhance agricultural management while contributing to the sustainable production of agricultural products.