Gather data for registration of verticillium nonalfalfae as a bioherbicide to control tree-of-heaven weed, ailanthus altissima that can be used to manage a key host plant for the regulated pest,…

The purpose of this $414,782 Cooperative Agreement awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) under the Plant and Animal Disease, Pest Control, and Animal Care program (CFDA 10.025) is to gather data for the registration of the bioherbicide Verticillium nonalfalfae to control the tree-of-heaven weed (Ailanthus altissima). This research is significant as the tree-of-heaven is a key host plant for the spotted lanternfly, a regulated pest that poses a major threat to U.S. agriculture. The award, with a performance period of May 1, 2024, to April 30, 2025, is provided to the minority-owned biotechnology company Bioprodex, Inc. This cooperative agreement continues Bioprodex's ongoing efforts, previously funded under similar USDA APHIS awards, to develop an effective and environmentally friendly solution for managing invasive plant species and, by extension, help control the spread of economically damaging pests like the spotted lanternfly.

Gather data for registration of verticillium nonalfalfae as a bioherbicide to control tree-of-heaven weed, ailanthus altissima that can be used to manage a key host plant for the regulated pest, spotted lantern fly.