Active ingredient

Adoxophyes orana granulovirus strain BV-0001

Description

Mode of action

Adoxophyes orana granulovirus strain BV-0001 is a highly specific biological insecticide consisting of viral particles. The mode of action is triggered when larvae consume treated leaf surfaces, ingesting the virus into their digestive system.

Once inside the midgut, the alkaline environment dissolves the viral granules, releasing virions that infect the epithelial cells. This initiates a systemic infection that rapidly spreads through the larva's body tissues.

A key biological effect is the rapid cessation of feeding by the larvae shortly after infection. This prevents further damage to foliage and ripening fruit, which is crucial for protecting the commercial quality of the crop.

The virus is remarkably selective, targeting only specific leafroller species. This characteristic ensures that the preparation does not harm beneficial insects, predators, or pollinators such as bees and ladybirds.

As a biological agent, it leaves no toxic residues, making it an ideal choice for producers following organic or Integrated Pest Management (IPM) protocols.

What it targets

This active substance is primarily designed to control the larvae of the summer fruit tortrix (Adoxophyes orana) and related leafroller complexes found in pome fruit orchards.

It provides an effective solution for minimizing crop losses caused by caterpillars that feed on fruit skins and leaves, which often lead to increased cull rates during harvest.

The granulovirus is particularly effective in integrated management programs where sustainable pest control is required to meet environmental and food safety standards.

By controlling the population of leafrollers, the preparation helps maintain the health and vigor of the orchard ecosystem, reducing the reliance on broad-spectrum chemical pesticides.

It is suitable for use on various pome and stone fruit crops, ensuring comprehensive protection against target lepidopteran pests throughout the growing season.

Rates and timing

Application rates depend on the monitoring of pest density and the development stage of the target population. Treatments are most effective when applied at the onset of larval hatching.

Multiple applications are recommended to cover successive generations of the pest. Timing is essential to ensure that larvae consume the viral particles before they can hide inside fruit or rolled leaves.

It is advised to apply the product during late afternoon or cloudy conditions to avoid degradation caused by intense UV light, which can affect the viability of the viral particles.

The quality of the spray application is vital; ensure that all plant surfaces where caterpillars feed are thoroughly coated to maximize contact potential.

Consult the specific product label for regional guidelines and adjustments based on local temperature conditions, as these can influence the rate of infection in the field.

Restrictions

The effectiveness of this biological agent is sensitive to environmental conditions, particularly direct solar radiation, which can deactivate the virus if left exposed for extended periods.

As the substance acts via ingestion, it does not have systemic or translaminar activity. Therefore, achieving full coverage is necessary for reliable pest control results.

Storage of the product requires strict adherence to temperature requirements provided by the manufacturer to maintain the stability and virulence of the viral strain.

Avoid mixing with pesticides or fungicides that exhibit strong antimicrobial properties, as these may interfere with the virus's ability to infect or proliferate within the host larva.

Biological control results can be slower than chemical alternatives, requiring patience and a proactive monitoring strategy to manage the pest population effectively throughout the season.

Regulatory

Status in the European Union

Not approved in the EU

Category (EU)
IN - Insecticide
Approved from
01.02.2013
Approval until
31.01.2023
ADI
Not appl.
ARfD
Not appl.
AOEL
Not appl.

EU status is for reference only and does not replace national registration in your country.