description
- Terrestrial molluscs (slugs, snails) feed on a wide range of crops, causing considerable crop losses worldwide. They can devastate crops in a short period of time. Furthermore, feeding damage increases crop susceptibility to pathogens. Both are heavily attacked by slugs. It is estimated that the total annual cost to the UK industry from not controlling slugs in arable crops is over £100 million. Metaldehyde was the main pesticide used to control slugs in arable crops in the UK. It is often detected above the drinking water standard for pesticides. The withdrawal of metaldehyde and several other molluscicides has promoted an urgent search for safe alternatives. An essential oil from anisum seeds shows promise as a benign, sustainable molluscicide. This project focuses on: (1) recovery of the bioactive fraction of oil extracted using an inexpensive microwave-based method and (2) evaluating different formulations of the bioactive fraction. At least two formulations will be evaluated for delivery in drip irrigation, conventional sprayers and drilled during seed sowing or planting. Particular attention will be given to encapsulation of the AEO in inexpensive, proven matrices such as alginate, chitosan and cyclodextrin. Initial trials will be conducted in glasshouse studies with the optimised formulations and carefully selected controls being tested in experimental field trials, conducted on two important arable crops (oilseed rape, wheat). The commercial potential of the products for use as contact molluscicides, repellents and antifeedants will be evaluated by the industry partner, Crop IQ Technology, in field trials which determine optimum application rates and frequency of application. Development of innovative molluscicides will be of immense benefit to growers in both the agricultural and horticultural sectors. Unlike current products, AEO is short lived, therefore, there should be no residues but this will be verified by GC-MS analysis of plant tissue and produce. This six month study will provide CropIQ the opportunity to determine if the formulations need improvement and for development of business plan with a clear route to market.