BASF, Corteva Agriscience, and M.S. Technologies, L.L.C. have joined forces to introduce a groundbreaking soybean trait stack to the Brazilian market. This collaboration brings BASF’s nematode resistant soybean (NRS) trait together with Enlist E3® soybeans and Conkesta E3® soybeans, providing Brazilian farmers with an innovative biotech solution to combat root lesion nematodes and soybean cyst nematodes. These microscopic pests pose a significant threat to soybean crops, causing damage and reducing yields.
The NRS trait, developed by BASF, has shown exceptional efficacy in managing root lesion nematodes, with over 90% control demonstrated in extensive field trials spanning seven years. This trait marks a significant advancement in biotechnology for soybeans, offering farmers a critical tool in nematode management. By partnering with Corteva and M.S. Technologies, L.L.C., BASF aims to deliver this transformative trait to farmers in Brazil, enhancing crop protection and productivity in the region.
Enlist E3 soybeans, part of the Enlist® weed control system, provide growers with tolerance to multiple herbicides, including 2,4-D choline, glyphosate, and glufosinate. This system offers farmers additional options to manage herbicide-resistant weeds effectively. Conkesta E3 soybeans, on the other hand, incorporate two Bt proteins for controlling caterpillar pests in soybean crops, presenting a tailored solution for farmers in Latin America. The incorporation of these traits into soybean varieties underscores the commitment to sustainable and efficient agricultural practices in the region.
Christian Pflug, Licensing Director for Brazil and Paraguay at Corteva, emphasized the significance of integrating Enlist E3 and Conkesta E3 soybean technologies with BASF’s NRS trait to provide growers across Brazil with a powerful tool against nematodes. The joint development of the transgenic soybean event underscores the collaborative effort to enhance crop resilience and protect soybean yields in South America. M.S. Technologies, L.L.C. plays a pivotal role in this partnership, focusing on developing high-performing soybean genetics to maximize value and productivity for growers in the region.
Commercial varieties containing BASF’s NRS trait in Enlist E3 and Conkesta E3 soybeans are expected to be available to Brazilian farmers by the end of the decade or early next decade, pending regulatory approvals and completion of field testing. This industry-first soybean trait stack represents a significant milestone in biotech agriculture, offering sustainable solutions to address key challenges faced by soybean producers. While the terms of the agreement were not disclosed, the collaborative efforts of BASF, Corteva, and M.S. Technologies hold promise for the future of soybean cultivation in Brazil and beyond.
Key Takeaways:
– The collaboration between BASF, Corteva Agriscience, and M.S. Technologies introduces an industry-first soybean trait stack to address nematode pests in Brazilian soybean crops.
– The innovative NRS trait developed by BASF offers over 90% control of root lesion nematodes, providing farmers with a critical tool for nematode management.
– Enlist E3 and Conkesta E3 soybeans incorporate advanced technologies for herbicide tolerance and pest resistance, enhancing crop protection and productivity in Latin America.
– Commercial availability of soybean varieties with the NRS trait is anticipated by the end of the decade, signaling a significant advancement in biotech solutions for sustainable agriculture.
Tags: regulatory, biotech, validation
Read more on agribusinessglobal.com