LALGUARD C99WP bioinsecticide stood out as a key attraction at AgroBrasília 2025
Lallemand Plant Care, in collaboration with Brazil’s agricultural research agency Embrapa, has introduced LALGUARD C99WP, a new biological insecticide developed to combat two of Brazil’s most damaging crop pests — whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) and corn leafhopper (Dalbulus maidis).
Formulated as a wettable powder containing Cordyceps (Isaria) javanica isolate BRM27666, the bioinsecticide is designed for use in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) systems. It contains a high concentration of viable fungal spores (1×10¹⁰ conidia/g) and is compatible with other crop inputs, leaving no harmful residues.
The product acts by adhering fungal spores to the insect’s outer surface, where they germinate, penetrate, and colonize the pest’s body. This process, enhanced by fungal toxins, ultimately kills the insect. Remarkably, the fungus can also sporulate on dead insects, spreading new spores and potentially triggering an epizootic that controls further pest populations — a trait the company highlights as a key advantage.
Another standout feature is its room-temperature stability, unlike many biologicals that require refrigeration. Packaged under vacuum to preserve spore viability, LALGUARD C99WP has a shelf life of four months at 21–25°C and up to 18 months under refrigeration.
The launch comes as Brazilian farmers grapple with growing pest resistance to chemical insecticides and tighter global regulations on pesticide use. Last season, whiteflies caused widespread damage to multiple crops, while corn leafhoppers emerged as a top threat to maize. Lallemand notes that such trends underline the urgent need for effective and sustainable alternatives like LALGUARD C99WP.