Project number: 26.30.16.06.06_NoctuVir

Virus strategies to protect vegetables from the cotton bollworm

Entomopathogenic baculoviruses are highly specific, environmentally safe biocontrol agents against many lepidopteran pests, yet their operational use remains limited. This project aims to establish a research programme on such viruses for vegetable crop protection. WP1 focuses on optimising the use of Helicoverpa armigera nucleopolyhedrovirus (HearNPV), the only entomopathogenic virus currently registered in Switzerland for use against H. armigera, and commercialised by Andermatt Biocontrol as Helicovex®. WP2 targets the discovery and characterisation of new viral species active against emerging pest moths lacking sustainable control options. WP3 will implement field applications based on results from WP1–2, while WP4 ensures dissemination. The project arises from internal consultations within Agroscope’s vegetable research network and from exploratory exchanges with industrial partners experienced in viral biocontrol.

Last Name, First Name Location
Blouin Arnaud Changins
La Forgia Diana Changins

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