Pyrachlostrobin is a strobilurin fungicide developed by BASF that was first introduced to the agrochemical market in 2002. Through extensive research and field trials conducted in the late 1990s, scientists at BASF discovered pyrachlostrobin’s novel mode of action that was both highly efficacious and delivered excellent disease control with minimal risks. Pyrachlostrobin belongs to the chemical class known as methyl 2-benzoate, which is part of the strobilurin family of fungicides.

Mechanism of Action and Fungicidal Properties

At a molecular level, pyrachlostrobin works by inhibiting respiration in fungal cells. It blocks electron transfer at the Qo (ubiquinone oxidation) site of the mitochondrial cytochrome bc1 enzyme complex, disrupting adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production. Without a stable source of cellular energy, fungus is unable to carry out metabolic functions or grow, making it an ideal broad-spectrum protectant and systemic fungicide. Pyrachlostrobin exhibits both contact and systemic activity, moving upward and downward systemically in the plant after foliar or soil application. Its protective and curative properties provide long-lasting control of many yieldthreatening diseases.

Registered Pyraclostrobin

Pyrachlostrobin is registered for use on a wide variety of agronomic, vegetable, and fruit crops globally. Some of its major applications include controlling gray leaf spot in corn, early blight and septoria leaf blotch in tomatoes, black sigatoka in bananas, pecan scab, powdery mildew in grapes, leaf rust and stripe rust in wheat, and pyricularia leaf spot in rice. It is frequently mixed with other fungicides that have different modes of action to provide season-long management of diseases and reduce the risk of resistance. Due to its positive agronomic profile and broad activity spectrum, Pyraclostrobin continues to play an integral role in integrated pest management programs on many crops.

Benefits over Older Fungicide Chemistries

An advantage of pyrachlostrobin compared to older fungicide chemistries like the demethylation inhibitor (DMI) fungicides, is that it shows little to no potential for cross-resistance to other fungicide groups. Initial resistance to pyrachlostrobin and other strobilurin fungicides was slow to develop since they represented a new mode of action when introduced. Reports of fieldevolved resistance remain relatively low in most crops despite 15–20 years of extensive use. Pyrachlostrobin’s reduced mammalian toxicity and favorable environmental profile also make it a safer option for growers, farm workers and the surrounding ecosystem. It does not persist as long as some older fungicides in soil or leach readily into groundwater.

Resistance Management Considerations

While pyrachlostrobin retains efficacy against many important disease pathogens, proactive resistance management plans are still recommended. As with other highly effective fungicides, over-reliance or consecutive applications of pyrachlostrobin can select for resistance over time. Integrating it into an optimal tank-mix or sequence with dissimilar fungicides is important. Other practices like reducing application rates, alternating chemistry classes, using FRAC group 11 fungicides only for a limited number of sprays per year, and following labeled crop rotation guidelines can help delay resistance development. Continued monitoring for genetic shifts in pathogen populations treated with pyrachlostrobin will also aid stewardship of this broadspectrum fungicide mode of action.

Future Research and Improvements

Despite nearly two decades of global use, pyrachlostrobin continues to be an important tool for growers that warrants ongoing research and product improvements. BASF plant scientists are conducting investigations into expanding pyrachlostrobin’s utility against new pathogens and minor use crops.

they are also working to formulate new combinations that provide enhanced protection, residual activity and resistance management. Delivery system advancements could maximize efficacy while minimizing rates applied. Looking ahead, further optimization of resistance management guidelines based on ongoing monitoring will be critical to prolong pyrachlostrobin’s commercial lifespan as a frontline disease control option. With judicious stewardship practices, this vital fungicide is projected to remain highly effective for years to come.

French German Italian Russian Japanese Chinese Korean Portuguese

Get More Insights On Pyraclostrobin 

Alice Mutum is a seasoned senior content editor at Coherent Market Insights, leveraging extensive expertise gained from her previous role as a content writer. With seven years in content development, Alice masterfully employs SEO best practices and cutting-edge digital marketing strategies to craft high-ranking, impactful content. As an editor, she meticulously ensures flawless grammar and punctuation, precise data accuracy, and perfect alignment with audience needs in every research report. Alice's dedication to excellence and her strategic approach to content make her an invaluable asset in the world of market insights.
(LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/alice-mutum-3b247b137 )