Research project
NemaKaps: Biological plant protection of the future
Development of encapsulated nematodes for sustainable control of vegetable flies
Project overview
The BMEL-funded research project NemaKaps (2024-2027) is developing an innovative method for the biological control of vegetable flies in cabbage crops. Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN) are embedded in a specially developed capsule that enables a targeted, delayed and long-term release of the beneficial insects in the soil.
The aim is to replace chemical insecticides, reduce environmental pollution and sustainably minimise yield losses in cabbage cultivation.
Objectives of the NemaKaps project
Vegetable flies - especially the small cabbage fly (Delia radicum) - cause considerable damage in cabbage cultivation. Current protective measures such as insecticides or protective nets have ecological, legal and practical limits. The use of EPN is known, but has so far failed due to a lack of suitable forms of application.
NemaKaps is intended to provide a solution: The specially developed capsules protect the nematodes from environmental influences, extend their lifespan and enable targeted release at exactly the right time - where the pests occur.
Cabbage fly (Delia radiucm)
Roll of the e-nema GmbH
e-nema GmbH contributes its many years of expertise in the production, optimisation and application of entomopathogenic nematodes to the project. Our focus is on:
- Development of a liquid nematode medium that maintains the vitality and infectivity of the nematodes for weeks.
- Selection and testing of robust nematode strains, including Heterorhabditis bacteriophora and Steinernema feltiae.
- Development of suitable production processes for industrial application.
Nematodes emerging from the capsule
Project partners
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e-nema GmbH (biological plant protection solutions, Schwentinental)
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Katz Biotech AG (Formulation & capsule technology, Berlin)
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ationFrankenförder Forschungsgesellschaft mbH (FFG) (Project coordination & field trials, Luckenwalde)
Funding information
Funded as part of the announcement ‘Innovations for healthy crops and sustainable plant protection methods’ by the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL)
Project duration: 01.04.2024 - 31.03.2027
Outlook
With NemaKaps, we are making a significant contribution to the development of sustainable plant protection methods. The project combines biotechnology, agricultural research and practical relevance to create robust, sustainable solutions for the agriculture of tomorrow.