Bayer and Embrapa research herbicide-resistant weeds

On average, 15% of global grain production is lost due to the existence of weeds in crops, as these species compete with the crop for water, light and nutrients. Currently, in the world, 252 species of herbicide-resistant weeds are registered - in Brazil, research indicates 44 species, around 20% of the total, according to data from the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa). Because of this problem, Bayer and Embrapa joined forces to study the resistance of weeds in tropical climates and propose management strategies to reduce the potential for losses caused by these plants.

The partnership between the two companies began in 2014 and lasts for five years. Studies on the behavior of pollinating agents in soybeans and on the resistance of fungi (Asian rust and target spot) to commercially available fungicides are underway in separate projects within the partnership. Research on resistant weeds in a tropical environment and evaluating cultivation systems is unprecedented, as previous studies did not evaluate the characteristics of production systems in Brazil. 

Among the fronts that will be studied are: data management; georeferenced collection; study of resistant weeds; characterization of resistance and lethal dose; development of management strategies in cotton, corn, soybean and wheat production systems. 

“With this partnership, we want to ensure sustainability in food production, providing producers with tools available to control different weeds that affect crops and threaten their productivity and profitability”, says Renato Luzzardi, Bayer Alliances Manager for America Latin.

The study will include trials to be carried out in the states of Rio Grande do Sul, Paraná, Minas Gerais, Mato Grosso do Sul, Mato Grosso and Goiás. A team of 12 renowned researchers from Embrapa Milho e Sorgo (MG) will work in these areas, counting on the support of Bayer specialists focused on weed control, resistance management and herbicide development. 

“Research and development partnerships with private companies like Bayer are strategic for Embrapa. They are what enable, among other factors, the development of solutions based on the real demands of Brazilian agriculture. The uniqueness of the initiative in a tropical environment is an unequivocal demonstration of the joint capacity for innovation that Embrapa and Bayer demonstrate”, says Celso Luiz Moretti, executive director of research and development at Embrapa.