Greensboro, North Carolina
December 5, 2006
After more than 10 years of
research in the United States, Canada, Europe and Brazil,
Syngenta Crop
Protection announced today the scientific reason why
thiamethoxam, the active ingredient in Cruiser® seed treatment
insecticide, offers growers more robust and vigorous plants. The
increased vigor is evidenced by faster emergence, greater plant
stands, earlier canopy and increased root mass. In most cases,
the increased vigor results in higher yields for the majority of
crops even in situations where there is no visible insect
attack. Patents relating to a method for producing increased
vigor have been granted in the United States and in 18 other
countries. Additional patents are being pursued.
In addition to the 10 years of research
performed by Syngenta, three years of independent laboratory and
greenhouse tests have been conducted by the University of Berlin
in Germany and the University of São Paulo in Brazil. The
extensive testing concludes the mechanism behind the positive
effects of thiamethoxam is its ability to increase the
production of plant specific proteins. This increase in
functional protein biosynthesis results in a plant with
remarkably stronger stress defense capabilities. Plants treated
with thiamethoxam have improved ability to deal with adverse
environmental conditions such as water deficiency, heat shock,
pests and elevated salt levels.
“This new research supports what growers across
the globe have been experiencing for years,” stated David
Lawrence, Head of Research and Technology at Syngenta, “that
thiamethoxam produces a more vigorous, higher-yielding crop even
when there is extremely minimal insect pressure.”
Syngenta is a world-leading agribusiness
committed to sustainable agriculture through innovative research
and technology. The company is a leader in crop protection, and
ranks third in the high-value commercial seeds market. Sales in
2005 were approximately $8.1 billion. Syngenta employs some
19,000 people in over 90 countries. Syngenta is listed on the
Swiss stock exchange (SYNN) and in New York (SYT). |
