Innovative new formulation for nematode products
Added on 18 March 2024
For over 25 years, the company e-nema from Schwentinental in northern Germany has been producing entomopathogenic nematodes for biological plant protection. Nematodes are tiny, approx. 0.5 mm long threadworms and, with over 20,000 different species, are among the most widespread creatures on earth. Some of these species are specialized in controlling harmful insects and this is exactly where e-nema GmbH comes in. It produces 5 different nematode species in so- called bioreactors. The nematodes grow and multiply in these reactors until they are ready for harvesting.
In order for the nematodes to be transported to users all over the world, they must be mixed with a carrier material. e-nema currently offers its nematode products in three different formulations.
The main formulation used by e-nema is diatomaceous earth. This is a naturally occurring powder made from the shells of fossil diatoms, which binds water and is well suited as a carrier medium for nematodes. One disadvantage of diatomaceous earth, however, is that optical residues can remain on the leaves of the treated plants. This is absolutely harmless, but is a major disadvantage for ornamental plant cultivation and some other plant cultures.
Residue-free and sustainable solution
After intensive research and various approaches, e-nema is proud to present its new Ecophyll formulation. Ecophyll is made from 100% organic and renewable resources and leaves no residue. Ecophyll dissolves very well in water and can be shipped with less packaging material. Ecophyll will be available in our product nemaflor® from April.
In parallel, extensive tests are being carried out in the field to evaluate the performance of Ecophyll in other products and crops.
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