Crop Protection 28 (2009) 838–844

Contents lists available at ScienceDirect

Crop Protection
journal homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/cropro

MoventoÒ, an innovative ambimobile insecticide for sucking insect pest control

in agriculture: Biological profile and field performanceq
Ernst Brück a, Alfred Elbert a, Reiner Fischer b, Stephen Krueger c, Jürgen Kühnhold a,
A. Michael Klueken a, *, Ralf Nauen d, Jean-Francois Niebes e, Udo Reckmann d,
Hans-Jürgen Schnorbach a, Robert Steffens c, Xavier van Waetermeulen a
a
Bayer CropScience, Development, Agronomic Development, Alfred-Nobel-Straße 50, D-40789 Monheim, Germany
b
Bayer CropScience, Research Insecticides, Chemistry Insecticides, Alfred-Nobel-Straße 50, D-40789 Monheim, Germany
c
Bayer CropScience LP, Product Development-Insecticides/Fungicides, P.O. Box 12014, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
d
Bayer CropScience, Research Insecticides, Biology Insecticides, Alfred-Nobel-Straße 50, D-40789 Monheim, Germany
e
Bayer CropScience SA, 16, rue Jean-Marie Leclair, CP106 69266 Lyon Cedex 09, France

a r t i c l e i n f o a b s t r a c t

Article history: The tetramic acid derivative spirotetramat (brand name MoventoÒ), has shown an outstanding perfor-
Received 29 September 2008 mance against sucking insect pests in laboratory and greenhouse assays as well as in semi-field and field
Received in revised form trials. The product acts as an inhibitor of lipid biosynthesis and affects juvenile stages with additional
29 June 2009
effects on adult fecundity. There is no cross-resistance to any other insecticide. After foliar application
Accepted 30 June 2009
spirotetramat penetrates through the leaf cuticle and is translocated as spirotetramat-enol via xylem and
phloem, up to growing shoots and down to roots. This full ambimobility or two-way systemicity (phloem
Keywords:
and xylem transport) ensures the control of hidden and soil living sucking pests after foliar application
MoventoÒ
Spirotetramat and protects new shoots. The worldwide field development of spirotetramat in Bayer CropScience AG
Tetramic acid derivative resulted in numerous uses against many species of whiteflies, aphids, scales (soft and armoured scales),
Systemic insecticide mealy bugs, psyllids and selected thrips species in vegetables, cotton, soybean, pome and stone fruit,
Phloem mobility grapes, hop, citrus, nut trees and banana. The new mode of action renders spirotetramat as an excellent
Integrated pest management rotation partner with existing products for the management of aphid, whitefly and psyllid populations,
which are frequently resistant to conventional insecticides. Moreover, only low adverse effects have been
found on beneficial arthropods, which make the product suitable for modern integrated pest manage-
ment (IPM) systems. These unique properties contribute to safeguarding the crop yield potential both in
quality and quantity. In this paper, the new chemistry is presented, compared with standard insecticides
and novel applications in IPM systems are discussed.
Ó 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

1. Introduction phloem mobile products acting mainly via ingestion are considered
as desired control options. Foliar penetration is of essential
Sucking insect pests are known to seriously damage agricultural importance to allow the transport of a product in the plant vascular
crops (FAO, 2008). However, the number of available products system and to exploit its full biological potential. In this context, the
belonging to different chemical classes for their control is limited development of spirotetramat by Bayer CropScience AG under the
and insect resistance sometimes compromises the use of currently brand name MoventoÒ opens new horizons for the control of
used products (Ishaaya, 2001, pp. 209–338). Moreover, sucking sucking pests (Van Waetermeulen et al., 2007; Nauen et al., 2008).
insects are frequently hidden in plant parts or may develop on Integrated pest management (IPM) systems make use of all
newly emerging shoots after insecticide application. Therefore, options to reduce pest populations with priority to non-chemical
measures (IOBC, 2008). Accordingly, chemical treatments should
not be done on a regular, preventive basis, but only when essential.
q Based on a presentation given at the XVI International Plant Protection Ideally, modern crop protection agents do not affect natural
Congress, Glasgow, UK, October 16–18th, 2007. enemies of pests and fit to IPM systems (Grafton-Cardwell et al.,
* Corresponding author. Bayer CropScience, Development, Agronomic Develop-
2008; Rosell et al., 2008).
ment, Alfred-Nobel-Straße 50, BCS AG-D-AD Building: 6100, D-40789 Monheim,
Germany. Tel.: þ49 2173 38 3958; fax: þ49 2173 38 7227. The new insecticide spirotetramat, a tetramic acid derivative,
E-mail address: [email protected] (A.M. Klueken). acts as a lipid biosynthesis inhibitor (LBI; Nauen et al., 2006,

0261-2194/$ – see front matter Ó 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
doi:10.1016/j.cropro.2009.06.015
 E. Brück et al. / Crop Protection 28 (2009) 838–844 839

2008). Relevant chemical and physical properties are summarized Aphids: different strains of green peach aphids, Myzus persicae
in Table 1. Due to its mode of action, juvenile stages of sucking Sulzer (Hemiptera: Aphididae) were maintained on cabbage,
pests are particularly affected. Thereby, it provides even control of Brassica oleracea L., at 22–23  C, 60% rel. humidity and L16 h:D8 h
hidden pests (such as root aphids) and protects new shoots photoperiod. Strain NS is an insecticide susceptible reference strain,
appearing after foliar application. The discovery of spirotetramat is whereas strains JR and F04-01 are resistant to organophosphates,
the result of Bayer CropScience AG research, optimizing a com- carbamates and pyrethroids, collected in Japan and France,
pound’s structure to meet the requirements of a phloem and respectively (Nauen et al., 1998).
xylem mobile substance. Spirotetramat displays limited contact
activity thus being mainly effective after ingestion (Nauen et al., 2.1.2. Bioassays
2008). Leaf-dip bioassay with whiteflies: One leaf of cotton plants with
Spirotetramat is an excellent rotation partner with existing two true leaves was removed and the remaining one was cut to
products in resistance management strategies for sucking pests. a size of approx. 15 cm2. These plants were infested with adult
Corresponding guidelines have been defined in order to assure the whiteflies (approx. 150 per leaf) for 16 h. Afterwards, the adult
sustainable use of this new insecticide (Elbert et al., 2008). whiteflies were removed. The a.i. was used as technical material of
The overall acute toxicity of spirotetramat as well as long term, the highest purity available. Stock solutions of technical material
reproductive, neuro- and geno-toxicity of the active substance are were prepared in acetone (10,000 ppm) and diluted to the desired
low. Short re-entry times and safe handling are feasible given spi- test concentrations using an aqueous 0.02% (w/w) Triton X-100
rotetramat’s highly favourable toxicological profile. Spirotetramat’s solution. Each set of plants was dipped into insecticide solution for
potential impact on different ecosystems has been thoroughly 5 s when 2nd/3rd instar nymphs were observed. Percentage
investigated. The outcome is a favourable eco-toxicological profile mortality was scored on representative leaf areas after 10–12 days
(Van Waetermeulen et al., 2007). at 25  C and 60% rel. humidity. The leaf-dip bioassays for B. tabaci
In this paper, the product’s profile is presented: formulation were performed following the methodology described by Elbert
development, biological performance in laboratory, greenhouse and Nauen (1996).
and field studies, and beneficial safety. Spirotetramat’s future uses Leaf-dip bioassay with aphids: all compounds were tested under
and implications in modern agriculture are discussed. identical conditions in six-well tissue culture plates. The wells were
filled with 2 ml Agar (1% (w/v)). Plates were equilibrated to room
temperature and leaf discs (Ø 30 mm) were cut from first and
2. Materials and methods second fully expanded true leaves from 3-week old plants of
B. oleracea. The leaf discs were then dipped into serial aqueous
2.1. Biological profile dilutions of active ingredient in 0.02% (w/v) Triton X-100, and after
drying the leaf discs were transferred to six-well plates. In order to
2.1.1. Insect populations assess aphicidal efficacy against different strains of M. persicae,
Whiteflies: different strains of Bemisia tabaci Gennadius spirotetramat was tested at least three times with up to six repli-
(Homoptera: Aleyrodidae) were maintained on cotton plants cates per concentration. Ten 3–4 day old nymphs taken from
(Gossypium hirsutum L.) at 25  1  C, 60% rel. humidity and synchronized populations were confined to each well. Mortality
a photoperiod of L16 h:D8 h. Strain SUD-S is known to be insecti- was scored 3 days after infestation. In another experiment the
cide susceptible, strains CRE04-01 and ESP-00 are neonicotinoid- efficacy of spirotetramat in combination with 1 g/L rapeseed oil
resistant Q-biotypes collected in Crete and Spain, respectively, methylester against 1st instar nymphs and adults was checked
whereas strains BR-JM03, ISR-02 and MEX03-02 are multiresistant 6 days after treatment using the same bioassay methods and as
B-biotypes collected in Brazil, Israel and Mexico, respectively described earlier by Nauen and Elbert (2003).
(Rauch and Nauen, 2003; Alon et al., in press; Karunker et al., 2008). Phloem mobility bioassay with M. persicae on cabbage: for the
standard test procedure cabbage plants with two fully expanded
true leaves were treated by applying to the 1st true leaf two
Table 1 aliquots (5 ml) of an acetone:methanol (1:1) solution (incl. 2 g/L
Most relevant chemical and physical properties of spirotetramat. rapeseed oil methyl ester) containing either 50, 10, 2, 0.8, 0.16 or
Brand name MoventoÒ 0.032 mg spirotetramat per 5 ml (i.e. giving a total dose of 100, 20, 4,
Common name Spirotetramat 1.6, 0.32 and 0.064 mg a.i. per plant). After 3 days the underside of
(ISO): the 3rd true leaf was infested with a mixed population (including
Chemical name ethyl-cis-3-(2,5-dimethylphenyl)-8-methoxy-2-oxo-1-
all development stages) of M. persicae. A clip cage was used to
(IUPAC): azaspiro[4.5]dec-3-en-4-yl carbonate prevent the aphids from escaping. The bioassay was replicated nine
CAS number: [203313-25-1] times by using six concentrations of spirotetramat. Aphid mortality
Empirical formula: C21H27NO5 was assessed 7 days after infestation at 21  C, 65% rel. humidity and
H a L16:D8 photoperiod. Solvent treated plants served as a control
N O and where appropriate, mortality values were corrected using
MeO Me
Abbott’s formula (Abbott, 1925).
Structural formula: EtO O
2.2. Field performance
O
Me The biological efficacy of spirotetramat against sucking insect
pests and its suitability for modern IPM systems were evaluated
Molecular weight: 373.45 g/mol within Bayer CropSience’s global Agronomic Development Divi-
Colour/appearance: Light beige powder sion and in international institutes (e.g. the South African Citrus
Vapor pressure: 1.5  108 Pa at 25  C Research International Ltd in Nelspruit). Therefore, semi-field and
Water solubility: 29.9 mg/L at pH 7 field trials were conducted globally comparing spirotetramat with
Melting point: 142  C
untreated plots and with different commercial standards. A wide
840 E. Brück et al. / Crop Protection 28 (2009) 838–844

range of different crops, such as top fruit (apple, pear), citrus, vine, 3. Results and discussion
vegetables (eggplant, tomato, broad bean), rice and cotton were
included. Representatives from most important sucking insect 3.1. Biological profile
pest species as well as beneficial arthropod groups like predators
(bugs, beetles, hoverflies, lacewings, earwigs, mites) and parasit- The phloem mobility of spirotetramat was demonstrated in
oids (wasps) were chosen for these studies. In most field trials, the a test system, where the compound was applied only to the first
beneficial arthropods were evaluated under enforced contact/ true cabbage leaf and the biological efficacy was monitored on the
ingestion conditions. Table 2 provides a short summary of third true leaf infested with Myzus persicae (Sulzer). High biological
parameters defined for selected trials with beneficial arthropods. activity and a clear dose-response were detected in the third leaf,
Each study cited was recently presented in more detail by indicating translocation in the phloem (Table 3). It was shown that
Schnorbach et al. (2008). The results are evaluated and summa- the translocation is especially effective from mature leaves to new
rized according to the international rating scheme suggested by growing leaves. Xylem mobile compounds, e.g. neonicotinoids,
the IOBC (2008). usually exhibit no activity in this test (Nauen and Denholm, 2005;
All field studies were carried out according to the Good Agri- Nauen et al., 2008).
cultural Practices or to the EPPO guidelines (EPPO, 2003, 2007). All systemic insecticides currently commercially available are in
However, the sample size was reduced from four to three repe- principle one-way systemic, i.e. after leaf uptake they are primarily
titions in a few studies. For efficacy trials, crops were usually translocated in the xylem of plants. This part of the plant’s vascular
sprayed at moderate pest infestation levels (pest threshold levels) system is known to passively transport mainly water and nutrients
with local standard application techniques (Backpack Knapsack in an acropetal, i.e. upward movement (Kleier, 1988, 1994). This is
sprayer, partly motor-operated with compressed air; nozzle type: different for spirotetramat; because once taken up by the plant,
‘Hollow Cone – Adjustable’ or ‘Turbo Teejet’; pressure: 2–3 bar). spirotetramat is quickly transformed to its biologically active spi-
The water volumes in field and tree crops were 300–600 and rotetramat-enol derivative, which is a weak acid exhibiting a pKa
1500–2000 l/ha per m CH, respectively. All rates are expressed in value of 5.2 and a lipophilicity of 0.3 (logP value at pH 7). A well-
grams active ingredient per hectare (i.e. g a.i./ha) in field crops or known simulation model for phloem mobility based on the inter-
in grams active ingredient per hectare and meter canopy height mediate permeability model predicts the extent of phloem mobility
(i.e. g a.i./ha per m CH) in tree crops unless stated otherwise. of a compound in a plant taken up after leaf application (Kleier,
Design and assessments of trials were conducted according to 1988, 1994). Two properties of a compound, acidity (pKa) and lip-
Bayer CropScience AG standards as defined in the data processing ophilicity (logP) determine the potential to be translocated in the
system ARM/SCOUT (Gylling, 2008). Results are frequently phloem. Maximum phloem mobility (high concentration factor) is
expressed in days after 1st or 2nd application (i.e. DAA and DAB, found in the logP area of 2 to þ1 and a pKa value of 4–6 (weak
respectively). acids). So as already shown under experimental conditions in the
phloem mobility bioassay, spirotetramat-enol definitely exhibits
2.3. Data analysis the physico-chemical properties allowing ambimobility, i.e. trans-
location in xylem and phloem.
LC50/95-values derived from laboratory bioassays were calcu- Besides the phloem and xylem mobility of spirotetramat
lated using the POLO computer program (LeOra Software, Berkeley, (Table 3), it has additionally shown excellent translaminar efficacy
USA). Mortality values observed after the application in laboratory, (data not shown).
greenhouse, semi-field or field trials were corrected according to The efficacy of spirotetramat is much higher against immature
Abbott (1925) whenever necessary. Further analyses were per- stages than against adult insects (aphids, whiteflies, psyllids and
formed using the data processing system ARM/SCOUT (Gylling, scales). As shown in Table 4, the LC95 for adults is 30 times higher
2008). than the LC95 for 1st instar nymphs of M. persicae. It could be

Table 2
Summary of trial parameters defined for selected trials using spirotetramat and a toxic reference together with beneficial arthropods (Schnorbach et al., 2008).

Beneficial group Beneficial species Crop Country Type of test No. of No. of Evaluation
treatments replications
Lacewings Chrysoperla carnea – Colombia Laboratory 1 4 Number of larvae/rep
Hoverflies Episyrphus balteatus Bean Germany Semi-field 1 1 Number of larvae, pupa & adults/rep
Predatory bugs Macrolophus caliginosus Tomato Spain Semi-field 1 5 Number of nymphs/rep
Ladybirds Chilocorus nigritus Citrus South Africa Semi-field 1 10 Number of adults & larvae/rep
Ladybirds Coccinella septempunctata Bean France Semi-field 1 4 Number of larvae, pupa & adults/rep
Parasitoids Aphytis lingnanensis Citrus South Africa Semi-field 1 10 Number of adults/rep
Parasitoids Coccidoxenoides perminutus Citrus South Africa Semi-field 1 10 Number of adults/rep
Parasitoids Trichogrammatoidea cryptophlebiae Citrus South Africa Semi-field 1 10 Number of adults/rep
Parasitoids Aphelinus mali Apple Germany Field 1 and 2 3 Percent of parasitization/rep
Parasitoids Encarsia formosa Tomato Spain Field 1 3 Number of mummies/6 plants
Predatory bugs Anthocoris nemoralis Pear Belgium Field 1 4 Number of adults & larvae/12 beatings
Predatory bugs Anthocoris nemoralis Pear Italy Field 1 2 Number of adults & larvae/20 beatings
Predatory bugs Orius sp. Bell pepper Italy Field 3 3 Number of insects/25 flowers
Ladybirds Coccinella septempunctata Bean Germany Field 4 1 Number of insects/10 plants
Earwigs Forficula auricularia Grape France Field 1 4 Number of adults & larvae/10 bunches
Spiders Lycosa pseudoannulata Rice Philippines Field 3 1 Number of spiders/20 hills
Spiders Tetragnatha sp. Rice Philippines Field 3 1 Number of spiders/20 hills
Predatory mites Typhlodromus pyri Apple Germany Field 3 2 Number of mites/25 leaves
Predatory mites Typhlodromus pyri Apple Belgium Field 1 4 Number of mites/30leaves
Predatory mites Typhlodromus pyri Grape Italy Field 4 1 Number of mites/5 leaves
Predatory mites Kampimodromus aberrans Grape France Field 4 1 Number of mites/10 leaves
 E. Brück et al. / Crop Protection 28 (2009) 838–844 841

Table 3 Table 5
Mean phloem-systemic efficacy (in %, on the 3rd leaf; standard deviation) of spi- Log-dose probit – mortality data of spirotetramat on some strains of B. tabaci
rotetramat (plus 2 g/L rapeseed oil methyl ester) applied in different rates [mg a.i.] on following leaf-dip bioassays with 2nd instar nymphs at 10 DAA (RR ¼ resistance
the 1st leaf against M. persicae on cabbage (n ¼ 9, mixed populations, efficacy at 7 ratio; Multi ¼ resistant stains towards OP (organophosphates; neonicotinoids) and
DAA, measured on the 3rd leaf). SP (pyrethroids; buprofezin; pyriproxyfen and pymetrozin)).

Application rate (on 1st leaf) % Efficacy (3rd leaf) Strain Biotype Known resistance LC50 ppm CL 95% RR
100 100  0 SUD-S – Susceptible 0.26 0.11–0.59 –
20 100  0 CRE04-01 Q Multi 1 0.72–1.4 3.8
4 85.6  24 ESP-00 Q Multi 0.74 0.15–3.5 2.8
0.8 56.7  29.4 BR-JM03 B OP; SP 0.64 0.30–1.4 2.5
0.16 22.5  21.9 ISR-02 B Multi 0.72 0.25–2.0 2.8
0.032 8.8  14.8 MEX03-02 B OP; SP 0.49 0.38–0.63 1.9

3.2.2. Efficacy
demonstrated in other tests (Nauen et al., 2008), however, that the
In 2001, the global field development of spirotetramat was
fecundity of adult aphids was strongly affected (Table 4). The speed
initiated, which resulted in numerous trials against whiteflies,
of action is variable and depends on the life stages and on external
aphids, scales, mealy bugs, psyllids and selected thrips species in
parameters. After the ingestion of spirotetramat, juvenile stages of
vegetables, cotton, soybean, oilseed rape, pome and stone fruit,
target insects cannot moult properly and die within 2–5 days.
grapes, tea, hop, tobacco, citrus, and banana. Below the results of
Therefore, the product is best to be applied at an early pest
these efficacy trials are specified and discussed for the individual
threshold level, i.e. when the built-up of the insect population takes
groups of sucking pests treated.
place.
Susceptibility studies were also conducted on multiresistant
3.2.2.1. Control of psyllids. Spirotetramat has demonstrated excel-
strains of M. persicae and B. tabaci. All strains of B. tabaci, including
lent and long lasting efficacy against important psyllid species such
Q-biotypes, which are resistant to a wide range of insecticides
as Psylla pyri (Linnaeus), Psylla pyrisuga (Förster), Paratrioza cock-
(organophosphates, carbamates, neonicotinoids, pyrethroids, and
erelli (Sulc), and Diaphorina citri (Kuwayama) in pear, tomato,
others), were susceptible to spirotetramat, with a maximum vari-
potato and citrus crops, respectively. Optimum application timing
ation of 3.8 fold between strains (Table 5). For M. persicae, leaf-dip
against P. pyri should focus on the second generation, at the
bioassays were done on cabbage using 3rd instar nymphs (Table 6).
beginning of egg hatch, which allows good insect control and
Again, spirotetramat showed excellent efficacy against individuals
prevents crop damage for at least 3 weeks after application
of the highly resistant strain JR. As a result, spirotetramat is
(Table 7).
a valuable resistance management tool and the product will be
listed as a member of group 23 of the Insecticide Resistance Action
3.2.2.2. Control of scales and mealy bugs. Spirotetramat has shown
Committee (IRAC) mode of action classification scheme (http://
good to excellent efficacy against pests from different scale fami-
www.irac-online.org).
lies: soft scales (Coccidae); armoured scales (Diaspididae) and
mealy bugs (Pseudococcidae). Excellent mean efficacy of 95%  11
3.2. Field performance against Aonidiella aurantii (Maskell) in nine orange trials in Spain
(2004–2006) was demonstrated using 60 g a.i./ha per m CH of
3.2.1. Formulation development spirotetramat. Under high pest pressure (72%  30 mean infested
Tailor-made formulations of systemic insecticides are of highest fruits) the standard pyriproxyfen at 50 g a.i./ha per m CH showed
importance for the maximum utilisation of their biological poten- mean efficacy levels of 62%  12. Similarly, higher mean efficacy
tial (Baur et al., 2007). That means that the active ingredient must levels of 84%  19 and 86%  15 were obtained using spirotetramat
first penetrate the plant via the leaves. In order to facilitate foliar (at 75 g a.i./ha per m CH) in seven trials in lemon against Aspidiotus
penetration of spirotetramat the addition of certain adjuvants is nerii (Bouché) and in three trials in orange against Parlatoria per-
essential. Therefore specific formulation systems have been gandii (Comstock), respectively (Spain, 2004–2006). They clearly
developed, i.e. as an oil dispersion (OD) containing 150 g a.i./L outperformed pyriproxyfen treatments at 50 g a.i./ha per m CH
(Vermeer and Baur, 2007) or as Suspension Concentrates (SC’s) (with 62%  19 and 88%  18 mean efficacy) und moderately high
containing 48–100 g a.i./L. 150 and 240 g a.i./L. SC formulations pest pressure (57%  39 and 64%  40 infested fruits, respectively).
have to be tank-mixed with a suitable adjuvant (such as rapeseed From our experiences it is clear, that sprays should be made at the
oil methyl ester) in order to exploit the full biological efficacy. crawler stage. In citrus producing countries such as Spain, a single
A suspension concentrate containing 120 g/L of spirotetramat and application was effective to protect the orange fruits from A. aur-
360 g/L of imidacloprid (brand name: MoventoPlusÒ) is being antii infestation until harvest. The same excellent performance
developed in Brazil for use against aphids, whiteflies, thrips and against the California red scale was also detected in those countries,
bugs in cotton, vegetables and soybean. All formulations have where it is considered to be a major pest in citrus crops (e.g. USA,
demonstrated a good miscibility with conventional crop protection South Africa, Morocco and Turkey). In pome and stone fruit, good to
products.

Table 6
Table 4 Log-dose probit-mortality data of spirotetramat on some strains of M. persicae
Mean efficacy of spirotetramat (þ1 g/L rapeseed oil methyl ester) against juvenile following leaf-dip bioassays with 3rd instar nymphs at 3 DAA (RR ¼ resistance ratio;
and adult forms of M. persicae in a leaf-dip bioassay (6 DAA) using an insecticide CA ¼ carbamates; SP ¼ pyrethroids).
susceptible strain (HS) of M. persicae (Nauen et al., 2008).
Strain Known resistance LC50 ppm CL 95% RR
Stage LC95 (ppm) CL 95% NS Susceptible 0.69 0.21–1.1 –
1st instar 0.73 0.48–1.5 JR OP; CA; SP 0.59 0.15–1.0 0.9
Adult 22 6.7–450 F04-01 OP; CA; SP 0.27 0.089–0.61 0.4
842 E. Brück et al. / Crop Protection 28 (2009) 838–844

Table 7
Chronological sequence of the mean efficacy (%  standard deviation) of spirotetramat and abamectin applied at different rates [g a.i./ha per m CH] against P. pyri in pear
obtained from 13 field trials (Italy and France 2004–2006).

Treatment Application rate 3–4 DAA 7–10 DAA 14–17 DAA 21–23 DAA 28–35 DAA
No. of trials – 6 12 13 12 3
Untreated – 26  30 32  28 37  24 28  19 48  39
Spirotetramat 72–75 76  18 81  16 96  3 93  6 73  18
Abamectin 6.75 84  11 77  21 87  9 79  21 56  29

In untreated plots, number of nymphs/shoot was assessed (spray volume: 500 L/m CH).

excellent control of Quadraspidiotus perniciosus (Comstock), Lep- (imidacloprid 200 SL), which was applied at higher application
idosaphes ulmi (Linnaeus) and Pseudaulacaspis pentagona (Targioni) rates of 72 g a.i./ha per m CH. Possibly, bell pepper plants were
has been observed in trials conducted in Europe and USA (data not colonized by neonicotinoid-resistant whitefly populations. Further,
shown). the variability was less pronounced (e.g. low number of outliers,
Spirotetramat’s outstanding properties to control mealy bugs small standard deviation) in the plots treated with 48 g a.i./ha per m
(Pseudococcus spp., Planococcus spp.) on grapes were demonstrated CH spirotetramat than in imidacloprid-treated plots, providing
in 11 and four field trials in EU and USA, respectively (2004–2006). evidence for consistently high and long lasting pest control
In untreated plots, 55%  29 infested bunches (EU) and 34  43 throughout the production period. In similar field trials, conducted
insects per bunch (USA) were observed. The standard treatments in Spain and Brazil (2004–2006), spirotetramat proved to be highly
were organophosphates OP (i.e. chlorpyriphos 960 g a.i./ha, effective for whitefly control. Additionally, the whitefly-trans-
methidathion 480 g a.i./ha) in EU, and buprofezin at 590 g a.i./ha in mitted viruses and subsequent virus infections in beans and
the USA and showed control levels with 70%  23 (EU) and tomatoes were significantly reduced in comparison to the control
69%  37 (USA) mean efficacy  standard deviation. However, (Table 8).
treatments with spirotetramat at rates of 72–88 g a.i./ha showed
92  7 (EU) and 99  0.5 (USA) mean efficacy  standard deviation. 3.2.2.4. Control of aphids. Spirotetramat provided a very good level
These results were confirmed in further 15 field trials in the EU of control of a wide range of aphid species, including those, which
(Spain, Greece and Portugal), USA, Mexico and South Africa. Clearly, are often protected from insecticide sprays while settling in non-
a single application of spirotetramat provided a very good long exposed places (such as aphid species living on the roots, or hiding
lasting protection until harvest. in the leaves or leaf layers) or because of secreting protective covers
(such as the woolly apple aphid).
3.2.2.3. Control of whiteflies. Whitefly species of economic impor- In six and two field trials against Nasonovia ribis-nigri (Mosley)
tance are effectively controlled by spirotetramat in vegetables, i.e. and Pemphigus bursarius (Linnaeus) conducted in France, Italy,
Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Westwood), B. tabaci, Aleyrodes prole- Germany, and Belgium from 2004 to 2006, spirotetramat (at 75 g
tella (Linnaeus), and in citrus, e.g. Aleurothrixus floccosus (Maskell). a.i./ha) showed 99%  1 and 85%  11 mean efficacy (%  standard
In all cases, the first application must be made at the beginning of deviation), whereas imidacloprid (at 100 g a.i./ha) only reached
the infestation, when whitefly populations are composed of adults, 87%  15 and 62%  6 Abbott control, respectively. In those trials,
eggs and young nymphs. Plants were protected from honeydew the aphid infestation was on a high level, with 36  28 N. ribis-nigri
and sooty mould for at least 4 weeks after the last application as aphids (12–14 DAA) and two colonies of P. bursarius at the roots
demonstrated in trials in Spain against B. tabaci in pepper. Fig. 1 (20–21 DAB), respectively. The results clearly showed, that spi-
demonstrates the efficacy of spirotetramat in controlling sweet rotetramat controlled lettuce infesting aphids including Aulacor-
potato whitefly (B. tabaci) on bell pepper in four trials from Brazil. thum solani (Kaltenbach) on a very high control level.
Mortality at two dose rates of spirotetramat 150 OD did not differ In apple, spirotetramat is highly effective against important
significantly, albeit a dose dependent trend of efficacy was species such as Dysaphis plantaginea (Passerini), Eriosoma lanige-
observed. Treatments of the new product were clearly superior rum (Hausmann), Aphis pomi (DeGeer) and the polyphagus spirea
when compared to the neonicotinoid insecticide used aphid Aphis spiraecola (Patch). A prerequisite for consistent bio-
logical efficacy is the penetration of the compound into the leaves.
Therefore, spirotetramat should be applied after the flowering of
apple trees, when sufficient foliage has developed.
100 200
Num ber of ny m phs (per 10 leav es )

Table 8
M ean effic ac y (in % Abbott)

Mean efficacy (% Abbott  standard deviation) of spirotetramat at different rates in

80 160
g a.i./ha or g a.i./ha per m CH (indicated by *) against B. tabaci in vegetable crops,
obtained from 12 field trials (Spain and Brazil 2004–2006).
60 120
Treatment Rate Spain Brazil Brazil
Number of trials – 8 4 3
40 80 Assessment method – Damage Insect Virus
Untreated – 68  25 209  48 73  46
20 40 Spirotetramat 48 – 96  2 84  39
Spirotetramat 75* 92  5 – –
Spirotetramat þ imidacloprid 24 þ 72 – 93  5 78  10
0 0 Imidacloprid 72 – 71  20 58  24
Movento 150 OD, Movento 150 OD, Imidacloprid 200 SL, untreated Imidacloprid 150* 47  30 – –
24 g a.i./ha 48 g a.i./ha 72 g a.i./ha (nymphs/leaves)
Pyriproxyfen 100 – 73  24 27  36

Fig. 1. Mean efficacy (%  standard deviation) of spirotetramat 150 OD against the In untreated plots in Spain, % sooty mould on leaves and fruits were assessed, while
sweet potato whitefly (B. tabaci) on pepper (C. annuum) 14 DAC (four trials, Brazil, number of nymphs/10 cm2 leaf and % of virus-infected plants were counted in
2005). Brazil.
 E. Brück et al. / Crop Protection 28 (2009) 838–844 843

In some field studies targeted against insects, mite populations several aphid species, were not harmed by spirotetramat in a semi-
were also present and side effects of spirotetramat were detected. field test. The side effects on beneficial spiders with a wide range of
Such suppressive effects on mite populations were mainly found prey were tested in rice, vegetables and cotton. Spirotetramat was
against tetranychid mites, such as Panonychus ulmi (Koch), Pan- classified as harmless to slightly harmful concerning spiders like
onychus citri (McGregor) and Tetranychus urticae (Koch), but also Lycosa spp. and Tetragnatha spp. The same applies to lacewings
rust mites. (Chrysoperla spp.) in vegetables and cotton, and to earwigs (For-
In summary, a great amount of field studies were performed ficula auricularia Linnaeus, Doru luteipes Scudder) in cotton and in
worldwide in different crops with spirotetramat between 2004 and vine (Table 9). Ladybird beetles are important predators of aphids
2008. In these field trials, all populations of aphids and whiteflies, and in semi-field and field trials carried out in vegetables, cotton
including the highly resistant B. tabaci Q-type, turned out to be and citrus, the product was classified as harmless to moderately
highly susceptible to spirotetramat. In line with a sustainable life harmful. Ladybird beetles included were Coccinella spp., Stethorus
cycle management and with IRAC’s general guidelines, a resistance spp. and Chilocorus nigritus (Fabricius). Spirotetramat is also safe to
management strategy for spirotetramat has been designed (Elbert hymenopteran parasitoids as represented by Aphelinus mali (Hal-
et al., 2008). deman) in apple trials and to Aphytis lingnanensis (Compère), Coc-
cidoxenoides spp. and Trichogramma cryptophlebiae (Nagaraja) in
3.2.3. Safety to natural enemies citrus trials (Table 9).
Selectivity towards beneficial arthropods and predatory mites is Spirotetramat showed side effects on predatory mites. The level
a requirement for a modern IPM-compatible product. Side effects of of effect differed considerably from site to site. While field trials in
spirotetramat on beneficial arthropods have been evaluated glob- pome fruit in Germany and Belgium showed no or only slight
ally in various laboratory, greenhouse, semi-field and field trials. effects on Typhlodromus pyri (Scheuten), the product was slightly
Predatory bugs are antagonists of aphids, thrips, whiteflies and toxic to toxic for this mite species in trials conducted in northern
psyllids. From trials carried out in crops like vegetables (tomatoes, Italy. In the latter case, however, predatory mite populations
eggplant), pear and cotton, spirotetramat can be considered as recovered within the season and the prey/predator-ratio was never
harmless to slightly harmful to predatory bugs like Anthocoris affected. Moreover, effects on T. pyri and Kampimodromus aberrans
nemoralis (Fabricius), Macrolophus caliginosus (Wagner) and Orius (Oudemans) were classified as harmless to slightly harmful in trials
spp. (Table 9). Larvae of hoverflies, Episyrphus spp., feeding on conducted in vineyards in Italy and Germany (Table 9).
In conclusion, spirotetramat can be considered to be safe to
most beneficial arthropods according to the results obtained from
Table 9 semi-field and field studies, because there were no long lasting,
Summary of spirotetramat’s selectivity profile for representative groups of beneficial adverse effects on beneficial bugs, lacewings or parasitoids. More-
arthropods. over, a disruption of the balance between the mites and the pred-
Group of Rating atory mites was never detected. This good selectivity opens
beneficial arthropods 1 2 3 4 possibilities for the combined uses of this product together with
Ladybird beetles beneficial arthropods. Therefore, the product can be recommended
- Coccinella spp. for the use in IPM systems. Further research will focus on the
- Stethorusspp.
- Chilocorusspp. optimal application timing against pests together with the inter-
Predatory bugs ference of natural enemy populations in protected crops. This
- Anthocorisspp. should include the definition of threshold values for a combined
- Orius spp. application of spirotetramat and beneficial arthropods in green-
- Nabis spp.
- Geocorisspp. house crops following IPM systems.
- Macrolophus spp.
Predatory midges
- Aphidoletes spp. Acknowledgements

Hoverflies
We thank all colleagues who contributed to the worldwide
- Episyrphus spp.
development of spirotetramat. We also acknowledge the contri-
Earwigs butions of all departments involved in other aspects of develop-
- Forficula spp. ment: Discovery, Environmental Safety, Environmental Fate,
- Doru spp.
Lacewings
Human Safety and Formulation Technology. We are also grateful to
- Chrysoperla spp. our colleagues of CRI in Nelspruit, South Africa for their excellent
work for the IPM fit of spirotetramat in citrus.
Parasitoids
- Aphelinusspp.
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