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Corteva Introduces Revolutionary Insect Control Solutions

In an exciting development for agriculture, Corteva Agriscience has officially announced the launch of two groundbreaking crop protection solutions designed to protect farmers against destructive insect pests. This pioneering innovation comes as a response to the global threat posed by thousands of insect species that can severely damage crops, lead to yield losses, and diminish the quality of produce. Estimates suggest that these insects can result in a staggering loss of 20% to 40% in key crops such as wheat, corn, and rice, costing the agricultural sector approximately $70 billion each year.

The New Solutions: Goltrevo™ and Varpelgo™

The first offering, Goltrevo™, represents Corteva's inaugural venture into bioinsecticides. This broad-spectrum microbial-based solution is tailored to tackle issues posed by sap-feeding and chewing insects, which include problematic pests like whiteflies, aphids, and the aggressive corn leafhopper. This latter pest is notorious for spreading corn stunt disease, which can decimate yields by up to 70%.

Goltrevo’s efficacy stems from its unique formulation, which utilizes a novel strain of Beauveria bassiana, a fungus that targets pest species effectively. This solution promises farmers a longer shelf life and a lower propensity for resistance development, thus enhancing its usability across a diverse array of crops such as corn, soybeans, sugarcane, fruits, and vegetables. Corteva anticipates that commercial sales of Goltrevo will commence by 2027 in Latin America, contingent upon regulatory approvals.

The second innovation, Varpelgo™ active, draws inspiration from nature to create a next-generation insecticide. By studying the characteristics of the naturally occurring active ingredient, Qalcova™, Corteva has developed a highly effective solution aimed at controlling various chewing insects, including diamondback moths and armyworms. Varpelgo is ideal for a variety of crops, such as soybeans, corn, rice, and several fruits and vegetables, making it a versatile option for farmers around the globe.

Commitment to Sustainable Farming

Corteva's executive vice president for crop protection, Robert King, emphasized the company’s commitment to innovation, stating that these newly launched products are pivotal in bolstering their portfolio of biological and insecticidal offerings. With these new insect management tools, Corteva aims to enhance farmer productivity while aligning with a broader vision of sustainable agricultural practices. The availability of Varpelgo is anticipated in the early 2030s, with introductions planned in Asia Pacific and Latin America following successful field trials and regulatory review processes.

As farmers look for effective methods to manage insect-related crop damage, Goltrevo and Varpelgo stand out as promising solutions. Designed with a favorable ecological profile, both options fit neatly into integrated pest management regimes, offering farmers additional rotational choices that promote sustainability and contribute to global food security.

The Future of Agriculture

Corteva, with its strong focus on delivering advanced solutions that meet the pressing challenges of modern agricultural practices, is poised to help reshape the future of farming. Through innovation, high-touch engagement with farmers, and a commitment to impactful solutions, Corteva is on a mission to maximize agricultural productivity while ensuring that the food system progresses in a way that serves generations to come.

These advancements represent just the beginning of what Corteva has to offer. As the industry evolves, the introduction of new technologies and effective pest control methods will play a crucial role in securing agricultural output against the backdrop of climate change and pest pressures.