AgBiome, Inc. announced their new biological fungicide, Theia, has been approved for use on specialty crops in California, according to a release. Theia fungicide is the second proprietary solution approved for use in California from AgBiome. Theia provides protection against multiple soilborne and foliar diseases in high-value fruits and vegetables.
“California growers continue to look for effective and sustainable solutions that protect their crops from detrimental diseases,” said Adam Burnhams, AgBiome chief commercial officer. “Theia fungicide’s approval in California gives growers a new tool that offers excellent control of a variety of diseases such as powdery mildew and fusarium.”
The biological fungicide provides protection to crops by blocking fungal and bacterial pathogens and activating crops’ natural defenses. Theia’s active ingredient is Bacillus subtilis strain AFS032321. EPA approval was given to the biofungicide in June of 2022 and it is registered in 49 states.
Theia is a part of AgBiome’s in-house GENESIS™ discovery platform. This biofungicide comes after Howler® fungicide, AgBiome’s first biofungicide, which is registered for use across the U.S. The original microbe discovery, sequencing and product development has all been led by AgBiome’s team.
“Our goal has always been to create effective crop protection products,” said Dr. Brooke Bissinger, Theia fungicide product manager for AgBiome. “We are excited to have Theia fungicide available to support growers in California as they deliver high-quality fruits and vegetables across the world.”
More information: https://www.agbiome.com/theia/
