Biocontrol of Xylella and its vector in olive trees for integrated pest management (BIOVEXO). (BIOVEXO)

BIOVEXO demonstrates a set of new and innovative biopesticides targeting the plant-pathogenic Xylella bacterium and its transmitting spittlebug vector, to fight a disease that seriously threatens olive and almond production in the European Mediterranean region. BIOVEXO's biopesticides will reduce the input of chemical insecticides and will sustainably increase and secure European olive cultivation in its valuable socio-economic context. The products will be tested for use in curative and preventive approaches (integrated pest management, IPM). BIOVEXO will provide a mechanistic understanding of the biopesticides' mode of action to support final product development and will ensure environmental and economic sustainability by performing a life cycle assessment (LCA) and risk, toxicity, and pathogenicity analyses. The University of Antwerp is mainly involved in the LCA activities. Thorough evaluation regarding regulatory compliance will prepare the products for smooth market entry post project.

Keywords:LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT, BIO-PESTICIDES, INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT, BIOCONTROL STRAINS

Disciplines:Biological control, Resources engineering, Agricultural plant protection