Key Takeaways
- Agmatix and BASF have partnered to develop a digital solution to detect and predict soybean cyst nematode (SCN) infestations.
- The initiative was launched through AgroStart, BASF’s open innovation platform focused on agricultural technology collaborations.
- Agmatix’s Axiom AI engine will power the tool by standardizing and analyzing SCN field trial data to improve prediction accuracy.
- The solution is designed to integrate with farm management systems and provide near real-time SCN risk assessments.
- The partnership reflects a growing trend toward digital approaches in pest management and crop protection.
Agmatix Partnership With BASF To Target Yield Loss from Soybean Cyst Nematode
Agmatix, a provider of AI-powered agronomic solutions, has announced a collaboration with BASF, one of the world’s largest agricultural input providers, to develop a machine-learning-based tool for detecting and forecasting soybean cyst nematode (SCN) infestations.
The project is being conducted under BASF’s AgroStart program, an initiative designed to support startups and tech developers working on agricultural challenges. The goal is to equip soybean growers with scalable, data-driven insights to mitigate SCN-related yield loss, which remains one of the leading pests affecting soybeans globally.
Agmatix’s AI-Driven Model Built on Enriched Agronomic Data
The foundation of the project is Axiom, Agmatix’s proprietary AI platform. Axiom transforms raw agronomic trial data into standardized, enriched datasets, enabling the creation of a predictive model for SCN detection.
“The most critical element in any AI model is the quality of the data driving it,” said Dr. Shai Sela, Chief Scientist at Agmatix. “By harmonizing and enriching SCN field trial data, we can ensure reliable outputs across various growing conditions.”
The digital model is expected to support proactive decision-making and could complement conventional detection methods such as soil sampling or root digs, which are often time-consuming and underutilized.
Integrated Approach with BASF’s Crop Protection Expertise
The collaboration merges Agmatix’s digital agronomy capabilities with BASF’s knowledge in seed and crop protection technologies. According to BASF, the digital solution will complement its broader offering, including products such as Nemasphere™, and will integrate into existing farm operations.
“Collaborating with companies like Agmatix allows us to leverage digital technologies alongside our crop protection solutions,” said Mika Eberl, Head of AgroStart and Digital Officer at BASF Agricultural Solutions.
The tool is intended to help growers assess SCN risk at planting, a critical time for determining management strategies.
Digital Tools for a Persistent Soybean Pest
SCN is recognized as one of the most destructive pests in soybean production, causing an estimated $1.5 billion in annual yield loss in the United States. Early detection remains difficult, making scalable, predictive tools increasingly valuable.
“Nematodes are the leading cause of soybean yield loss in the United States,” noted Michael McCarville, Trait Development Manager at BASF. “This collaboration supports BASF’s ongoing commitment to developing new approaches that help protect grower productivity.”
Outlook and Broader Implications for Digital Agriculture
The Agmatix-BASF partnership is expected to contribute to broader efforts in digitizing pest management and enhancing agronomic decision-making.
“Our collaboration with BASF is driven by the need to deliver a practical, data-backed tool that helps growers minimize losses caused by SCN,” said Ron Baruchi, President & CEO of Agmatix.
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