New pheromone solution helps protect corn crops from devastating fall armyworm
FMC Corporation, a leading agricultural sciences company, announced it has received registration for Sofero® Frugi pheromone in Côte d'Ivoire, marking the first introduction of the company’s novel, sprayable pheromones portfolio into the European, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region. Sofero® Frugi will provide farmers with a new tool for the sustainable management of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) in corn. Fall armyworm poses a major threat to food security in West Africa, particularly in corn production, where infestations can result in significant yield losses and economic hardship for farmers.
"The registration of Sofero® Frugi in Côte d’Ivoire marks a significant milestone in FMC’s mission to deliver innovative and sustainable crop protection solutions to African agriculture," said Sebastià Pons, vice president and president of FMC EMEA. “This breakthrough technology offers West African farmers a powerful, nature-based tool to safeguard their crops, helping to boost both quality and yield. Mating disruption has long been a trusted method in high-value fruit and vegetable production, and with Sofero® Frugi, we are proud to introduce one of the first pheromone solutions tailored for large-scale row crops, a true testament to FMC’s leadership in innovation and formulation science.”
Sofero™ Frugi naturally suppresses fall armyworm populations by disrupting the pest’s mating cycle through pheromone signaling. This breakthrough technology slowly releases a plume of “false” signals, overwhelming the male and rendering it unable to locate a mate. It’s a prevention-first approach that offers a sustainable and environmentally responsible complement to conventional insecticides. When used alongside Coragen® insect control, FMC’s trusted insecticide, and Arc™ farm intelligence, Sofero® Frugi provides Ivorian farmers with a powerful new tool for integrated pest management.
Sofero® Frugi is part of FMC’s Sofero® pheromone solutions brand, a lineup of distinctive pheromone products for row crops. The brand reflects FMC’s commitment to providing farmers with advanced technologies that support long-term crop health and productivity.
