A Powerful Alternative for Brazilian Farmers to Combat Pigweed and Other Broadleaf Weeds
Lactofen, an herbicide that has been off the market for a few years, is making a comeback in Brazil. Known for its effectiveness in controlling broadleaf weeds like pigweed (Amaranthus), this PPO inhibitor herbicide is now available in the country through AgriLean and JOTEW, marking an important milestone for Brazilian farmers battling glyphosate-resistant weed infestations.
Lactofen’s Mode of Action
Lactofen belongs to the PROTOX inhibitor class of herbicides and is effective in post-emergence applications. The herbicide works by interrupting the chlorophyll synthesis in susceptible plants, leading to weed cell death. When applied correctly, Lactofen offers an effective control solution for stubborn weeds like pigweed, which have become resistant to popular herbicides like glyphosate and ALS inhibitors.
“Lactofen is making a comeback in Brazil to address the growing problem of resistant weeds, especially pigweed, which has become a serious challenge in soy production,” said Jones Yasuda, Facilitator Solution Director at AgriLean.
Challenges in Brazilian Agriculture: Glyphosate-Resistant Weeds
The rise of herbicide-resistant weeds in Brazilian agriculture is one of the biggest challenges for growers. Pigweed (Amaranthus), blackjack (Bidens pilosa), and Mexican fireplant (Euphorbia heterophylla) are the most troublesome, especially in Brazil’s soybean fields. These weeds can cause significant yield losses, with research showing that just one resistant pigweed plant can reduce soybean grain productivity by 6.4%, and in severe cases, up to 80%.
As these weeds grow rapidly, they compete for light, water, and nutrients, drastically impacting productivity and complicating harvests. With pigweed producing up to 600,000 seeds per plant, the risk of widespread infestation is increasing, making it even harder to control using traditional herbicides.
The Return of Lactofen: A Solution for Resistant Weeds
In response to these challenges, Lactofen is re-entering the Brazilian market, offering an effective solution for controlling broadleaf weeds, including pigweed. Applying Lactofen post-emergence ensures effective control without exacerbating the spread of resistance. This method of application prevents the selection of resistant biotypes while providing an additional tool in the fight against resistant weeds.
“Lactofen is returning as one of the most reliable tools for post-emergence control of weeds like pigweed, offering greater efficacy compared to other herbicides,” said Robinson Osipe, Weed Science researcher at Estação Dashen.
While the herbicide may cause chlorosis (yellowing) and necrosis (death) in soybean crops, these visual symptoms do not affect yield as long as application guidelines are followed correctly.
Lactofen’s Benefits and Application
One of the major advantages of Lactofen over glyphosate is its PROTOX-inhibiting mode of action, which targets an enzyme pathway that is not commonly resistant in weeds. This mode of action makes Lactofen a powerful tool in managing resistant weeds, even in cases where glyphosate has begun to fail.
The herbicide is especially useful for soybean and corn crops, where resistant broadleaf weeds are most problematic. Applied at the correct stage and dosage, Lactofen offers higher efficacy, even in the presence of weeds resistant to other chemical treatments.
About AgriLean and JOTEW
JOTEW has been a prominent player in the Brazilian agricultural sector for over 35 years. The company, through its subsidiary AgriLean, focuses on importing and distributing agricultural inputs, including fertilizers, crop protection products, and biologicals. Together, JOTEW and AgriLean have created a strong synergy that integrates farmer expertise and technical knowledge, ensuring the provision of high-quality products to Brazilian farmers.
The company has already expanded to cover 650,000 hectares of land across Brazil, primarily planted with soybeans, cotton, and corn. Their portfolio includes over 150 trade names of crop protection products based on 50+ active ingredients.
Export Dynamics and Market Potential
Lactofen’s re-entry into Brazil not only helps tackle local challenges in Brazilian agriculture but also opens doors for export growth in Latin America and other developing markets facing similar herbicide resistance issues. As one of the largest soybean exporters, Brazil’s agricultural solutions, including Lactofen, could also find demand in neighboring countries like Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay, where herbicide resistance is becoming a growing concern.
Looking Ahead: Sustainable Solutions for Brazilian Agriculture
With the reemergence of Lactofen, Brazilian farmers gain a valuable tool to manage resistant weeds and protect their crops from yield loss. As resistance continues to challenge farm productivity, the need for innovative and sustainable herbicide solutions like Lactofen becomes increasingly critical. The future of Brazilian agriculture will require such products to ensure continued success while preserving the environment and optimizing crop protection practices.
