Rice nematode threatens yields in Brazil, Biotrop launches Biomagno biocontrol

The rice root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne graminicola) is reducing panicle numbers and grain counts in Brazilian rice fields, lowering overall productivity. Agronomist Lucas Bruning of Biotrop explains, "Seu controle é difícil: quando os sintomas começam a aparecer, o parasita já causou danos significativos à planta." The nematode thrives in flooded paddies and resistant cultivars are scarce, limiting integrated management tools.

Biotrop’s biological product Biomagno, containing beneficial microorganisms, acts preventively by colonising roots and consuming root exudates that would otherwise attract the nematode. Bruning adds, "Os microrganismos presentes nas soluções biológicas controlam o alvo e produzem compostos que estimulam o enraizamento da planta, promovendo, assim, arranque inicial superior." The solution aims to improve plant vigor and tolerance while directly suppressing the pest.