Sero-X & Vert,FAQ:
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What is Sero-X and how does it work against Verticillium Wilt?
Sero-X is a botanical pesticide derived from the Butterfly Pea plant. It is registered with the APVMA for managing Verticillium dahliae, a soil-borne fungus causing wilt disease in cotton. Sero-X works by inhibiting the formation of microsclerotia, the key survival structures of the Verticillium fungus, thus reducing its ability to spread and infect.
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What evidence supports Sero-X's effectiveness against Verticillium Wilt?
Extensive field trials conducted by the Australian Cotton Research Institute and NSW DPI have consistently demonstrated Sero-X's efficacy. Early trials (2017-2019) measured propagule per gram (PPG) of soil, showing Sero-X limited or reduced the fungal inoculum. Subsequent trials (2020 onwards), using DNA abundance testing, confirmed these findings, with Sero-X significantly reducing Verticillium dahliae DNA levels compared to untreated controls
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3. How is DNA abundance testing used to measure Sero-X's impact?
DNA abundance testing, specifically qPCR using PREDICTA B®, quantifies the amount of Verticillium dahliae DNA in soil samples. This method, unlike the labor-intensive PPG counting, offers a quicker and more practical way to assess treatment effectiveness. By comparing DNA levels in treated and untreated plots over time, researchers can accurately quantify Sero-X's impact on the pathogen.
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. What were the key findings of the long-term field trials using DNA abundance testing?
· All Sero-X treatments reduced Verticillium dahliae DNA levels: Regardless of the application rate, treated plots consistently showed lower pathogen DNA levels compared to the control.
· Label rate proved most effective: The recommended label rate (3 x 2L/ha) showed the most significant reduction (up to 97%) in pathogen exposure, highlighting its efficacy in mitigating Verticillium Wilt risk.
· Lower rates showed potential: Even at lower application rates, Sero-X demonstrated substantial efficacy in reducing the pathogen load, offering growers more flexible options.
· Long-term impact observed: The trials showed that Sero-X, by inhibiting microsclerotia formation, can help break the disease cycle and contribute to lower inoculum levels over time.
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5. Does Sero-X completely eliminate Verticillium Wilt?
While Sero-X offers a significant advancement in managing Verticillium Wilt, it's not a standalone solution for complete eradication. However, when integrated with other management practices like fallow management and crop rotation, it provides a robust approach to significantly suppress the disease and minimize its impact on cotton crops.
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How do different Sero-X application rates compare in terms of effectiveness?
Higher application rates generally correlate with greater disease control. The label rate (3 x 2L/ha) provides the most comprehensive protection, while half-label and lower rates still offer substantial efficacy. When the label claims are approved , Growers can choose the most cost-effective approach based on disease pressure and individual circumstances
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Why is a multi-faceted approach recommended for Verticillium Wilt management?
Verticillium dahliae is a persistent soilborne pathogen. While Sero-X effectively targets microsclerotia, integrating it with other strategies like crop rotation and fallow management provides a more holistic approach to reduce overall inoculum levels and disrupt the disease cycle more effectively.
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How does Sero-X benefit cotton growers in the long run?
By effectively managing Verticillium Wilt, Sero-X contributes to long-term benefits for cotton growers, including:
·· Sustainable disease management: Sero-X offers a biologically-derived alternative to conventional pesticides, aligning with sustainable farming practices.
· Reduced risk and increased profitability: By minimizing yield losses and reducing reliance on chemical inputs, Sero-X can contribute to increased profitability and farm sustainability in the long term.