Research and Development

Controlling Pests, Conserving Species Diversity

Simulated waterpond trials, to study the dynamics of the aquatic community in small ecosystems as part of crop protection R&D.

It takes Bayer CropScience up to ten years to develop a new crop protection product. One reason for this lengthy process is the extensive testing required to be able to guarantee product safety. This is not only a question of the agrochemical’s absolute safety for humans, but also for other animal and plant species. These tests are prescribed in detail by law. They also relate to products already on the market and whose registration must be renewed. It is to ensure that a product does not pose a threat to the species diversity of an ecosystem.

Chemicals used in agriculture are among the most scientifically scrutinized substances in the world.

So Bayer CropScience researchers investigate how test organisms react to a candidate substance. These so-called non-target organisms are chosen to represent each of the habitats water, air and soil. Typical examples are algae, fish, water fleas, earthworms, mites, chalcids, bees, birds, mice and also plants.

	Safety to fish research

The tests do not exclusively take place in a laboratory. Research is also conducted in the actual conditions of a natural ecosystem. When evaluating the environmental tolerance, scientists take the typical behavior of the observed species into consideration as well. For example, the length of stay in a (treated) field and the feeding habits are carefully analyzed.

The experts also make use of geographical information systems and simulation models. With their help it is possible to apply the results of spatially limited studies to larger habitats. These extensive eco-toxicological studies contribute to the fact that the chemicals used in agriculture are among the most scientifically scrutinized substances in the world.

The fact that an active ingredient not only attacks the targeted pest, but also affects non-target organisms can be the decisive criterion for a candidate to be excluded from further development. However, limited solutions are also feasible. If, for example, the risk potential is limited to fish or a specific fish species, the consequence may be that a safe distance from bodies of water is prescribed for the later application of the product so that the species diversity in these areas of water is protected.

[ last update: Friday, June 6, 2008 ]