Agriculture
Biological Insecticides
Our fungus-based Insecticides offer growers an effective and flexible alternative form of pest management. When used according to label instructions, they can complement conventional insecticides within integrated pest management programs.
Overview: Velifer® Biological Insecticide
At BASF, finding innovative solutions means exploring different approaches to insect control. One way we do that is by harnessing the power of nature through Velifer biological insecticide. The active ingredient of Velifer, Beauveria bassiana strain 5339, is a beneficial fungus that grows naturally in the soil and acts as a parasite to specific arthropod species for insect control. With good efficacy controlling target pest populations, including whiteflies, aphids, caterpillars, and mites, this biological insecticide is a valuable addition to integrated pest management (IPM) programs.Key Features and Benefits
Features
- Biological insecticide containing Beauveria bassiana strain 5339, a beneficial fungus that grows naturally in the soil
- Active against all life stages of the target pests
- Can be applied early in the growth cycle when target insect pests are first observed
- Highest live concentration of spores available in the market for B.bassiana products
- Registered uses include ornamentals, fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices, depending on the market
Benefits
- Works in a manner that complements traditional insecticide solutions
- Resistance development highly unlikely
- According to regulatory studies, Velifer can be applied alongside selected beneficial insects and pollinators when used according to label instructions.
- No known adverse symptoms of phytotoxicity
- High compatibility with main fungicides
- No pre harvest internal considerations
- Meets sustainability demands of retailers and consumers
Mode of Action
The active ingredient in Velifer is Beauveria bassiana strain 5339, a naturally occurring soil-borne entomopathogenic fungus. Velifer acts through direct contact with susceptible target pests. After contact, fungal spores germinate and penetrate the insect’s outer surface.
Velifer acts on multiple life stages of susceptible pests, a single application affects all life stages, but larvae are most susceptible. Once the pest comes in contact, the fungus multiplies in the insect body, providing insect control within 48 to 72 hours.
