Leap™: A novel biorational pesticide with two-way plant protection

Leap, a new biorational pesticide under development at Valent BioSciences Corporation, combines  two  major plant protection attributes: 1)non-copper suppression of plant diseases, particularly bacterial pathogens, and 2) insecticidal activity against a range of major lepidopteran pests. Leap has shown good field activity against diseases such as bacterial spot (Xanthomonas campestris) on tomato and angular leaf spot (Pseudomonas tabaci) on tobacco when rotated with conventional fungicides.  Field and laboratory studies have also shown that Leap is efficacious against major insect herbivorous pests such as beet armyworm (Spodoptera exigua), cabbage looper (Trichoplusia  ni),  tomato hornworm (Manduca quinquemaculata), and tobacco budworm (Heliothis  virescens).  Leap is expected to be a strong addition to the pesticide tool-box growers have available to help control both insects and plant diseases resulting in improved crop protection and yield.   The product’s attributes and field efficacy data will be presented.