Abamectin is a naturally derived acaricide/insecticide – isolated from the fermentation broth of the soil micro-organism, Streptomyces avermitilis.

Since the introduction of the compound in 1985 abamectin has become a leading acaricide/insecticide in several crops and in many countries. Major crops include citrus, tomatoes, apples, pears, vegetables, cotton, strawberries, tree nuts, hops, potatoes and ornamentals.

The product offers superior control of a broad range of pests including mites. Abamectin controls leaf eating mites and insects such as leaf miners, diamond back moth, tomato pinworm and colorado potato beetle. It is also effective in the control of sucking pests like psylla and thrips.

The translaminar activity of the product enables it to deliver long-lasting residual control of target pests - up to 30 days. It has a short pre-harvest interval of just 12 hours.

Cheminova has developed two EC formulations with excellent chemical stability. Introduction in several markets will take place during 2003.