Bionema release white papers: Bionema Ltd, a leading biopesticide technology developer, has released its first of a series of white papers explaining how biopesticides can control turf pests that are currently causing widespread devastation due to the recent banning of chemical pesticides. This first paper offers helpful advice to those that work in the turf and amenities sector.
Insect pests such as leatherjackets and chafer grubs have been known to destroy turf on golf courses, sports fields, racecourses and landscape, causing millions of pounds of damage annually. Until recently, turf and amenity managers were able to control these pests with chemical pesticides, but those products are no longer on the market due to concerns over toxicity. Thankfully, biopesticides offer an effective alternative solution.
Bionema release white papers
The new white paper, released today by Bionema, explains how certain species of beneficial nematodes (roundworms) actively search for insect larvae in the soil. They enter the insects through natural openings and release lethal bacteria that kill them within 24-72 hours. This is a natural process, as it forms part of these nematodes’ life cycle.
The new guidance document provides invaluable advice on choosing the right approach for the management of turf pests and explains that – when mixed, stored and applied correctly – biopesticides containing these beneficial nematodes can offer an effective, sustainable and cost-effective solution.
The white paper author Dr Minshad Ansari, Founder & CEO of Bionema, said: “When using any biopesticides, it is important to remember that you are dealing with living organisms, which tend to have optimal windows for performance. For example, factors like temperature, pH or humidity can have a significant impact on the performance of most of the biocontrol agents. Nematodes are particularly susceptible to ultra-violet light and desiccation, so biopesticides containing nematodes should only be applied early in the morning or late in the evening when there is less direct sunlight.”
By adhering to the application advice contained within the white paper, enhanced nematode performance can be built into a successful application regime by grounds managers, greenkeepers and landscapers to ensure effective pest control – without the use of harmful chemicals.
The white paper also includes information on the effective use of Bionema’s NemaTrident® biopesticide programme, which comprises three standard components: the beneficial nematodes; the NemaSpreader®- a biocompatible wetting agent that helps the nematodes to spread and reach the target; and the specialist training and advice to help customers optimise the effectiveness of the programme.
Dr Ansari concluded: “By using all three parts of the programme – beneficial nematodes, wetting agent and expert advice – you’ll get great results from controlling your turf pests with nematodes. The new white paper explains these steps in detail and provides easy-to-understand information on the science behind this biopesticide.”
The new white paper can be downloaded for free at https://bionema.com/white-paper/. If you would like to speak to one of Bionema’s technical experts about the management of turf pests, please contact info@bionema.com.
For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news
Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.
Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.
You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.
