Investigating mold fungi, nature's substances, to replace pesticides

Aarhus University is helping a large international company find nature's own substances to combat fungal diseases in crops.

The University's large collection of mold fungi and a minor collection of bacteria are part of the project.

The EU is proposing a halving of member states' use of chemical-based pesticides by 2030 and a complete ban in sensitive areas.

The SABS project has already identified some promising fungi that were able to produce the coveted bioactive substances.

The next step is to test the substances under controlled conditions in field experiments where grain is grown using the natural fungicides.

The project forms an opportunity to develop solutions that meet the needs of agriculture for completing a green transition.