Key Takeaways:
- DPH Biologicals and KitoZyme collaborate to develop ChitoNox FC, a sustainable chitosan seed treatment.
- ChitoNox FC provides effective protection against nematodes and soil-borne diseases.
- The product leverages KitoZyme’s fungal chitosan technology, a renewable and non-GMO alternative.
- ChitoNox FC will be available for the 2025 crop season.
- The seed treatment enhances plant growth and resilience while promoting sustainable agriculture.
DPH Biologicals Partners With KitoZyme
DPH Biologicals has announced a licensing agreement with Belgium-based KitoZyme to bring a sustainably-sourced chitosan seed treatment technology to U.S. growers. This collaboration aims to offer more effective biocontrol options by introducing ChitoNox FC, which provides comprehensive seedling protection, especially against nematodes and soil-borne diseases.
Addressing Agricultural Challenges with Sustainable Solutions
As the agricultural sector faces increasing pressure to maximize yield per acre amidst extreme weather conditions and rising pathogen threats, the demand for sustainable inputs has grown significantly. “We’re pleased to work with KitoZyme to offer U.S. growers a sustainable biocontrol and biostimulant in one solution,” said Alex Cochran, Chief Technology Officer for DPH Bio.
ChitoNox FC is derived from KitoZyme’s EPA-registered biopesticide KitoGreen technology. Unlike traditional crustacean-derived chitosan, ChitoNox FC is sustainably sourced from fungal biomass, specifically Aspergillus niger. This renewable, non-GMO source outperforms its crustacean-produced counterparts, offering an environmentally friendly and effective solution for seed treatment.
Benefits of ChitoNox FC
ChitoNox FC delivers three modes of action against disease:
- Antimicrobial Effect: Directly attacking pathogens to protect seedlings.
- Stimulation of Plant Defense Systems: Enhancing the plant’s natural ability to resist diseases and abiotic stress.
- Protective Film Formation: Creating a barrier around seeds and roots to prevent infection.
Additionally, the strong positive charge of ChitoNox FC absorbs nutrients, boosting root development and overall plant growth. This enhancement is crucial for improving crop stress resilience. The product is safe for use as a seed treatment, with no negative impact on germination, and is compatible with inoculants and synthetic seed treatments, even helping to reduce resistance.
François Blondel, Chief Executive Officer of KitoZyme, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “We are very pleased to enter the U.S. market through DPH Bio, a leader in developing and scaling science-based biological technologies. It reinforces the value of our fungal chitosan as a plant-based alternative for commercial growers and is a clear signal that our approach to sustainable agriculture is on the right track.”
Availability and Future Prospects
ChitoNox FC is slated to be commercially available for the 2025 crop season. This innovative product represents a significant step forward in sustainable agriculture, providing U.S. growers with a new tool to enhance crop protection and resilience.