Introduction of LALGUARD C99WP
At AgroBrasília 2025, one of Brazil’s major agricultural events organized by Coopa-DF (Agricultural Cooperative of the Federal District Region), the spotlight turned to the unveiling of LALGUARD C99WP, a new biological insecticide that has quickly become a focal point in pest management discussions.
Developed through a strategic collaboration between Lallemand Plant Care and Embrapa (Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation), LALGUARD C99WP is formulated with the exclusive BRM27666 isolate of the entomopathogenic fungus Cordyceps (Isaria) javanica. This breakthrough bioinsecticide targets two of Brazil’s most significant crop pests: Whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) and Corn Leafhopper (Dalbulus maidis).
Mode of Action and Application Benefits
LALGUARD C99WP is delivered in a wettable powder (WP) formulation, containing 1×10^10 viable conidia per gram. Upon application, conidia adhere to the insect’s cuticle, germinate, penetrate, and colonize the host. Toxins released during colonization lead to the pest’s death. Remarkably, the fungus can also sporulate on dead insects, facilitating secondary spread through new conidia and potentially triggering epizootic events.
Key benefits include:
- No chemical residues
- High compatibility with Integrated Pest Management (IPM) systems
- Broad-spectrum action against both nymphs and adults
Storage Stability and Shelf Life
One of LALGUARD C99WP’s standout advantages is its exceptional stability. Unlike many biological products requiring refrigeration, LALGUARD C99WP is stable at room temperature (21–25 °C) for up to 4 months, and for 18 months at 2–8 °C, thanks to its vacuum-sealed packaging.
Market Relevance and Pest Pressure
In Brazil, whitefly infestations have severely affected crops across multiple regions, while corn leafhopper is now considered the most damaging pest in maize cultivation. The growing resistance of pests to conventional chemical insecticides and the global regulatory phase-out of many such products make LALGUARD C99WP a vital alternative.
Industry Perspective
According to Lallemand Plant Care, the development addresses a rising demand for sustainable, non-residue, and resistance-breaking solutions. The product is expected to gain traction not only for its efficacy but also for its alignment with modern eco-agriculture and regulatory compliance trends.
