Agricultural Products

Contents
F 500 The Premium Fungicide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Fungicides at BASF. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 F 500 Fast and Long-Lasting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 F 500 Strong and Reliable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 F 500 Broad Spectrum of Activity and Wide Application Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 F 500 Comprehensive Protection Against Fungal Pathogens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 F 500 in Soybeans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 F 500 in Cereals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 F 500 Physiological Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 F 500 in Turf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 F 500 in Fruit Crops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 F 500 in Arable Crops and Bananas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 F 500 in Vegetables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 F 500 Mode of Action/Resistance Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 F 500 The Molecule and its Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 F 500 Toxicity and Environmental Behaviour . . . . 36 F 500 The Advantages at a Glance . . . . 38

F 500 The Premium Fungicide

BASF - The Chemical Company has built its success on innovation and creativity. A systematic and integrated approach is responsively geared to meeting our customers needs, and is crucial to both commercial success and sustainable development. Chemists, biologists, toxicologists and agronomists work hand in hand to deliver a steady stream of innovations that help farmers to produce sufficient, healthy and affordable food.
(Dr. Jrgen Hambrecht, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF Aktiengesellschaft)

One of the recent results from this research philosophy is F 500, which has set a new standard in the strobilurin class of active ingredients.

Our successful research and development activities in the field of agriculture are an excellent example for this kind of innovation.

broad and wide

strong and reliable

fast and long-lasting

Fungicides at BASF

Innovation and Unparalleled Standards

The search for new active ingredients against fungal diseases in cultivated plants has traditionally been a successful area of activity at BASF. With epoxiconazole, the company could thus set a standard for the azole class that remains unparalleled to this day.

The introduction of products containing kresoxim-methyl caused a revolution on the fungicide market: other companies also began developing strobilurins and strobilurincontaining products. As a result, products from this fungicidal class are the most effective and important fungicides on the market today.

F 500 The New Strobilurin Standard

At BASF research continued to develop new strobilurins. The result is F 500, the latest generation of strobilurins, which controls even more fungal pathogens in even more cultivated plants in an extraordinarily effective and reliable way. Previously unobtainable speed and long-lasting efficacy in conjunction with enormous strength and reliability in its application make F 500 the new standard for the strobilurin class of active ingredients.

The KresoximMethyl Milestone The First Strobilurin on the Market

When strobilurins were first introduced, BASF was a forerunner in terms of innovation: kresoxim-methyl was the first active ingredient to be developed from this new class of substances and which was first registered for use in 1995. This allowed BASF to introduce the first strobilurin in the world onto the market an important milestone in the history of fungicides.

F 500 Fast and Long-Lasting

Fast to the Site of Activity

zo 0 sec

Long-Lasting Activity

10 m

A portion of the dissolved F 500 penetrates the leaf only minutes after its application. The active ingredient diffuses over short distances within the leaf tissue and forms deposits also in the areas of the epicuticular waxy layer that had not been treated the perfect all round protection.

F 500 forms deposits on the leaf that are firmly bound to the waxy layer. The reason for this is the lipophily of the active ingredient in conjunction with its low vapour pressure and low water solubility.

This ensures only minimal loss of the active ingredient as a result of evaporation or its being washed off by rain. Instead, the compound remains continuously active over a period of several weeks.

zo

fl

60 sec

10 m

Fast Acting
bzo zo

120 sec

10 m

bzo 240 sec

10 m

F 500 blocks the energy supply of the fungal cell and thus its other vital functions. The zoospores of Plasmopara viticola (Fig. a), for example, are rendered immobile only seconds after contact with F 500 (Fig. b). At the same time, the energydependent pump systems of the cell membrane shut down. As a result, water flows uncontrolled into the fungal cell and the zoospores swell (Fig. c) to the point where they burst due to the increased pressure (Fig. d).

Effect of F 500 on zoospores of Plasmopara viticola zo: zoospore fl: flagellum bzo: bursted zoospore F 500 for perfect all round protection for example against Septoria tritici in wheat

F 500 Strong and Reliable

Strong at the Site of Action

The strength of F 500 is the product of three factors: 1. The site of action (molecular target) the mitochondrial respiratory chain is of crucial importance to the fungus survival. 2. The active ingredient is available at the site of action both quickly and for a long time (abundance).

3. It displays an exceptionally high intrinsic activity, i.e. inhibition of the molecular target (EC50 values measured on yeast mitochondria under standard conditions [Mol/l]): F 500: 2,9 x 10 - 8 Competitive strobilurin: 9,7 x 10 - 8 In practical terms, this means a compound with high efficacy and long lasting activity even at low rates.

Reliable Activity
F 500 is able to control pathogenic fungi even after the plant has become infected. For example, the new active ingredient stops the development of Septoria tritici and the necrotisation of the

plants tissue as a result of the infection even if some cells have already been infected at the time of the application. Together with the exceptional protective activity of F 500, this translates into an unprecedented degree of reliable control.

Curative effect of F 500 on Septoria tritici*

Semi field trial, assessment 21 days after inoculation 10 days after inoculation: colonization of larger tissue areas Influence on necrotisation of plant tissue necrosis [%] 6 days curative 10 days curative

Development of Septoria tritici in a wheat leaf

Semi field trial

50 40 30
6 days after inoculation: infection of individual cells my

52

52

33

20 10 0 12 0 6

50 m
my: mycelium in the leaf 1 day after inoculation: germination of spores hi Influence on pycnidia formation pycnidia [%] 6 days curative 10 days curative

ho

50 40

50 m
ps gt hi: hypha in the leaf ho: hypha on the leaf

30 20 10 0 0 0 0 0 21 21 18

background picture

50 m
ps: pycnidiospore gt: germ tube

21 days after inoculation: development of pycnidia 50 m

untreated

strobilurin competitor

market product

F 500

* Performance shown against sensitive strains. For more details see: www.frac.info

10

11

F 500 Broad Spectrum of Activity and Wide Application Range

Broadside Against Fungi

F 500 displays an unusually broad spectrum in over 60 crops. Even with low application rates BASFs new strobilurin very effectively controls economically important pathogens from the classes of ascomycetes, basidiomycetes, deuteromycetes, and oomycetes. This extraordinary broad spectrum is particularly useful in crops that are threatened by several pathogens simultaneously, for example cereals, grapes, fruits, vegetables, or turf.

100 %

80 %

60 %

40 %

20 %

0% untreated

Oom ycete s Asco myce tes Deut erom ycete s Basid iomy cetes

4 ppm

16 ppm

Plas mop ara in gr apes viticola

Drec hsl in ba era tere s rley Alte rnar ia so in to mato lani Pucc inia reco in w ndita heat

Efficacy of F 500: Control of fungal pathogens from four economically important pathogen classes
Results from glasshouse trials

12

17

Comprehensive Protection Against Fungal Pathogens

Cereals
Septoria tritici Stagonospora nodorum Puccinia recondita Puccinia striiformis Puccinia hordei Drechslera tritici-repentis Bipolaris sorokiniana Drechslera teres Microdochium nivale Rhynchosporium secalis Blumeria graminis Fusarium graminearum Fusarium culmorum Pseudocercosporella herpotrichoides

Turf
Rhizoctonia solani Pythium aphanidermatum Microdochium nivale Gaeumannomyces graminis Bipolaris sorokiniana Colletotrichum graminicola Laetisaria fuciformis Pyricularia grisea Puccinia spp. Magnaporthe poae Typhula spp. Sclerotinia homoeocarpa

Sugar beets
Cercospora beticola Erysiphe betae Ramularia beticola Uromyces betae

Beans
Colletotrichum lindemuthianum Phaeoisariopsis griseola Uromyces appendiculatus Alternaria alternata Sclerotinia sclerotiorum Botrytis cinerea

Oilseed rape
Alternaria brassicae Leptosphaeria maculans Sclerotinia sclerotiorum

Cabbage
Alternaria brassicae Mycosphaerella brassicicola Peronospora parasitica

Lentils
Ascochyta fabae Colletotrichum truncatum

Mango
Colletotrichum gloeosporioides Oidium mangifera

Stone fruits/Almonds Coffee Lettuce

Rhizoctonia solani Erysiphe cichoracearum Sclerotinia sclerotiorum Botrytis cinerea Bremia lactucae Sclerotinia minor Cercospora coffeicola Hemileia vastatrix Mycena citricolor Phoma spp. Ascochyta spp. Venturia carpophila Tranzschelia pruni-spinosae var. discolor Monilinia spp. Sphaerotheca pannosa Wilsonomyces carpophilus Rhizopus spp. Taphrina spp. Blumeriella jaapii

Papaya
Oidium caricae Asperisporum caricae

Soybeans
Cercospora kikuchii Microsphaera diffusa Septoria glycines Corynespora cassiicola Phakopsora pachyrhizi*
*preventative application

Potatoes
Alternaria solani Phytophthora infestans Rhizoctonia solani

Blueberries
Colletotrichum spp. Phomopsis vaccini Monilinia vaccinii-corymbosi

Apples Grapes
Plasmopara viticola Uncinula necator Guignardia bidwellii Pseudopezicula tracheiphila Phomopsis viticola Elsinoe ampelina Glomerella cingulata Isariopsis clavispora Botrytis cinerea Venturia inaequalis Podosphaera leucotricha Alternaria mali Gloeodes pomigena Zygophiala jamaicensis Botryosphaeria spp. Glomerella cingulata Diplocarpon mali

Peanuts
Mycosphaerella arachidis Mycosphaerella berkeleyii Phoma arachidicola Puccinia arachidis Leptosphaerulina crassiasca Sphaceloma arachidis Rhizoctonia solani Sclerotium rolfsii Sclerotinia minor

Tea Tomatoes
Alternaria solani Leveillula taurica Septoria lycopersici Colletotrichum coccodes Phytophthora infestans Exobasidium vexans Exobasidium reticulatum Pestalotia longiseta Colletotrichum theae-sinensis

Onions
Alternaria porri Peronospora destructor Sclerotinia sclerotiorum Botrytis squamosa

Pears
Alternaria kikuchiana Stemphylium vesicarium Venturia nashiicola Venturia pirina Botryosphaeria spp.

Ornamentals
Carnations: Uromyces dianthi Roses: Diplocarpon rosae Sphaerotheca pannosa

Tobacco
Peronospora tabacina Alternaria alternata Erysiphe cichoracearum

Peppers
Leveillula taurica

Citrus Bananas
Mycosphaerella fijiensis Mycosphaerella musicola Guignardia musicola Elsinoe australis Elsinoe fawcettii Guignardia citricarpa Diaporthe citri Alternaria spp. Colletotrichum spp. Mycosphaerella citri

Strawberries Peas
Colletotrichum spp. Mycosphaerella fragariae Gnomonia fragariae Sphaerotheca humuli Phytophthora cactorum Rhizopus spp. Botrytis cinerea

Cucurbits
Pseudoperonospora cubensis Alternaria cucumerina Colletotrichum lagenarium Corynespora cassiicola Didymella bryoniae Erysiphe cichoracearum Sphaerotheca fuliginea

Corn/Maize
Drechslera spp. Phaeosphaeria maydis Puccinia polysora Puccinia sorghi

Chrysanthemums: Puccinia horiana Gerbera: Erysiphe cichoracearum

Carrots
Alternaria dauci Erysiphe heraclei Sclerotinia sclerotiorum

Mycosphaerella pinodes Erysiphe spp. Peronospora viciae Botrytis cinerea

Efficacy:
13 14 15

excellent

good

moderate

low
16

Performance shown against sensitive strains. Resistant strains have been found in some pathogens. For more details see: www.frac.info

F 500 in Soybeans

F 500 shows excellent activity against major diseases, which attack soybean leaves and pods. Especially in situations where Asian Soybean Rust (Phakopsora pachyrhizi) needs to be treated, F 500 in combination with a triazole like epoxiconazole shows excellent control. Asian Soybean Rust is a devastating disease. When conditions for the development of the fungus are favourable, yield losses reach up to 80 %.

Effects Beyond Disease Control

Due to its physiological effects, F 500 not only provides excellent disease control, it also improves the plants metabolism, which results in additional yield.

infection [%]

Activity of OPERA against Late Season Disease Complex*

15 trials South America, 1 application at growth stage R3, assessment at growth stage R6 1999 2002

65

untreated competitor strobilurin 50 g a.i./ha OPERA 0,5 l/ha 1 application

20

4
* Cercospora kikuchii, Septoria glycines

infection [%]

Activity of OPERA against Corynespora cassiicola (target spot)

4 trials South America, 2 applications at growth stage R2 and R5.1, assessment 14 days after 2nd application, 2003 2005

20

untreated competitor strobilurin+triazole 84 g a.i./ha OPERA 0,5 l/ha 1 application

32 27 20

infection [%]

Activity of OPERA against Microsphaera diffusa

38
untreated competitor triazole 50 g a.i./ha OPERA 0,5 l/ha 1 application

infectio n [%] 14

yield [d t/ha]

10 trials South America, 1 application at growth stage R3, assessment 28 days after application, 1999 2002

86

Reliable control of broad disease spectrum Best complement to triazoles in case of soybean rust control
Activity of OPERA against Phakopsora pachyrhizi in soybeans
250 trials South America, 2 applications at growth stage R2 and R5.1, assessment 21 days after 2nd application, 2004 2005

untreated competitor product

(strobilurin+triazole) 84 g a.i./ha

Additional yield benefits through better stress tolerance Significantly increased yield and improved economy

OPERA
133 g F 500 and 50 g epoxiconazole/l (2 x 0,5 l/ha)
19

18

F 500 in Cereals
Due to its distinctive broad spectrum of activity, F 500 is extremely well suited to control most leaf and ear diseases in cereals. The fungicide offers comprehensive protection against leaf blotch (Septoria tritici), glume blotch (Stagonospora nodorum), tan spot (Drechslera triticirepentis), brown rust (Puccinia recondita), yellow rust (Puccinia striiformis), net blotch (Drechslera teres), scald (Rhynchosporium secalis) and other important cereal diseases. ingredients or active-ingredient mixtures a unique combination of properties in a single substance. This means maximum flexibility and reliability, which result in highest yield of top quality.

infection [%]

yield [dt/ha]

Activity of F 500 against Puccinia recondita in wheat

1
11 trials Europe, 1 application at growth stage 39-65, assessment 30-40 days after application, 1998-1999

91

A Unique Combination of Properties

In terms of its protective and curative efficacy, as well as its long-term activity, F 500 surpasses all previously known active

F 500 250 g a.i./ha competitor strobilurin 250 g a.i./ha untreated

87

35

71

infection [%]

yield [dt/ha]

Activity of F 500 against Drechslera tritici-repentis in wheat* Activity of F 500 against Septoria tritici in wheat*
53 trials Europe, 1 application at growth stage 32-43, assessment 34-56 days after application, 1997-1999
* Performance shown against sensitive strains. For more details see: www.frac.info

94

F 500 250 g a.i./ha competitor strobilurin 250 g a.i./ha untreated

8 trials Germany, 1 application at growth stage 47-65, assessment 30 days after application, 1998-1999

91

40

81

90 untreated competitor strobilurin

250 g a.i./ha

84

yield [dt/h a]
infection [%] yield [dt/ha]

F 500
250 g a.i./ha

Activity of F 500 against Drechslera teres in barley* 69

19 trials Europe, 1 application at growth stage 32-49, assessment 30 days after application, 1997-1998

79

F 500 250 g a.i./ha competitor strobilurin 250 g a.i./ha untreated

75

37

59

* Performance shown against sensitive strains. For more details see: www.frac.info

11

Exceptional performance against Septoria tritici and

26 Drechslera tritici-repentis in wheat

Outstanding efficacy against other important pathogens,

such as brown rust and net blotch

Strong curative activity Excellent long-lasting efficacy

infection [%]
20

54

Yield and quality of the highest grade

21

F 500 Physiological Effects

The outstanding long-lasting and strong activity of F 500 against a broad spectrum of pathogens, are decisive reasons for high yields of cereals. Moreover, F 500 can have further positive effects on the yield due to its physiological effects on the plants, both on the regulatory and metabolic levels.

Increased Stress Tolerance Guarantees Yields

When subjected to short-term stress, for example drought, plants produce more ethylene, which can initiate premature senescence. Under such conditions, F 500 can curb ethylene

production. This helps the plants to store assimilates in the grain for a longer time and ensures optimal maturation yield and quality are assured.

Increased Yields Through Improved Use of Nitrogen

It could already be shown in plants treated with kresoximmethyl, that the activity of the nitrate reductase increased the bottleneck and thus key enzyme in a plants N assimilation.

Yield is assured High grain weight Shrivelled grain avoided

This enables a better utilization of the soil nitrogen. Comprehensive studies with wheat plants (Kaiser and Glaab, University of Wrzburg) have now shown that this most advantageous side effect is markedly surpassed by F 500. In practical and environmental terms, this means an improved conversion of the applied nitrogen into yield and an even lower washing-out into the ground water.

Yield increased

Protection Against Viruses

Most recent findings from model studies (Herms, Seehaus, and Conrath, University of Kaiserslautern) prove that F 500 can substantially accelerate the formation of defensive proteins in the case of viral attacks much in the same way as the plants own salicylic acid and a variety of synthetic derivatives. The infection can thus successfully be blocked yet another potential and, in this combination, unique protective factor for the plant.

Higher stress tolerance Low risk of premature ripening

More protein More biomass

Regulatory influences

Metabolic influences

Decrease in ethylene release

Increase of nitrate reductase

N assimilation

22

23

F 500 in Turf

Numerous fungal diseases occur in turf. In many trials, F 500 has demonstrated its extraordinary broad spectrum of activity and strong efficacy against Rhizoctonia solani, Pythium aphanidermatum, and Microdochium nivale, among others. In contrast to other strobilurins, F 500 is also effective against dollar spot (Sclerotinia homoeocarpa).

High-grade Turf
Depending on the pathogen, the disease pressure, and the spray intervals, comparatively low rates of 250 - 560 g a.i./ha are necessary. F 500 has been shown to be extremely well tolerated by all grass varieties tested to date. In many trials,

the treated areas were observed to have more intensive green colour and improved grass quality. F 500 sets a new standard for turf in the control of the most important pathogens world-wide it is highly effective with long spray intervals, low rates, and great flexibility.

infection [%]

Activity of F 500 against Rhizoctonia solani

7 trials USA, 3-5 applications, assessment 14 days after last application, spray interval 14 days, 1999-2000

68 11 5 5

untreated CS* 1 250 g a.i./ha CS* 2 250-300 g a.i./ha F 500 250-300 g a.i./ha

infection [%]

Activity of F 500 against Sclerotinia homoeocarpa

4 trials USA, 1-2 applications, assessment 14 days after last application, spray interval 14 days, 1997-2000

44

untreated competitor strobilurin 280 g a.i./ha F 500 280 g a.i./ha

F 500 500-560 g a.i./ha competitor strobilurin 500-560 g a.i./ha market product 750-1,500 g a.i./ha untreated

34

infection [%]

Activity of F 500 against Microdochium nivale

7 trials world-wide, 1-2 applications, assessment 14 days after last application, spray interval 14 days, 1996 -1999

25

untreated competitor strobilurin 250 g a.i./ha F 500 250 g a.i./ha

10 %

15 %

18 %

Controls all important fungal diseases Low rates required

* CS: competitor strobilurin

49 %

Long spray intervals Tolerated by all grass varieties tested

Activity of F 500 against Pythium spp.

7 trials USA, 1-2 applications, spray interval 7-14 days, 1996-1999

24

25

F 500 in Fruit Crops

Grapes
F 500 has been tested in significant grape-growing areas around the world. The fungicide displayed an exceptional activity on the most important grape pathogens.

The fungicide controls diseases such as downy and powdery mildew (Plasmopara viticola and Uncinula necator, respectively) very efficiently. These diseases are effectively controlled on both leaves and clusters, even if the disease pressure is extremely high. Furthermore F 500 is successful in controlling important regionally occurring grape diseases such as those caused by Guignardia bidwellii (black rot), Pseudopezicula tracheiphila, and Phomopsis viticola.

Apples
F 500 is highly effective against apple scab (Venturia inaequalis) and powdery mildew (Podosphaera leucotricha), as well as storage diseases. It thus controls the most important diseases in the apple production.
untreated competitor strobilurin 100 g a.i./ha F 500 100 g a.i./ha

In addition to its protective activity, F 500 also has curative properties. These properties, together with very good crop tolerance and rain fastness, offer a high degree of flexibility in controlling diseases. F 500 does not harm predatory mites and is thus particularly suitable for integrated pest management.

Citrus
F 500 showed a very good efficacy against the most important diseases of citrus in trials with high disease pressure: scab (Elsinoe spp.), black spot (Guignardia citricarpa), melanose (Diaporthe citri), Alternaria
untreated market product 1 2,550 g a.i./ha CS* 100 g a.i./ha MP** 2 500 g a.i./ha F 500 75 g a.i./ha

(Alternaria citri), and greasy spot (Mycosphaerella citri). In addition, F 500 shows a high plant tolerance. Compared with standard products containing copper, the rate required of F 500 is substantially lower (5 - 7.5 g a.i./100 l) a benefit for the environment. As a result of the outstanding success in disease control with F 500, the number of marketable fruits is significantly increased.

untreated competitor strobilurin 250 g a.i./ha F 500 100 g a.i./ha

96
infection clusters [%]

71

infection fruits [%]

marketable fruits [%]

89

16 8 3 4 12 25 30 3 4

65

65

90

infection leaves [%]

74

infection leaves [%]

11

Activity of F 500 against Plasmopora viticola

9 trials Europe, 6 -7 applications, assessment 14 days (leaves) or 21 days (clusters) after last application, 1997-1998

Activity of F 500 against Venturia inaequalis

19 trials Europe, 8-10 applications, spray intervals 8-16 days, assessment 14 days after last application, 1998-1999

Activity of F 500 against Elsinoe australis in tangerines

2 trials Argentina, 3 applications, spray intervals 21 days, assessment 87-136 days after last application, 1999

* CS: competitor strobilurin ** MP: market product

Excellent activity against Plasmopara viticola and

Uncinula necator

Broad spectrum of activity Protective and curative activity

Good rain fastness Very well suited for integrated pest management

Broad spectrum of activity High efficacy Crop safety Improved fruit quality Excellent environmental behaviour

Very good efficacy against other important fungal pathogens Long spray intervals No influence on fermentation and taste Safe on beneficials, important for integrated pest management systems

Performance shown against sensitive strains. Resistant strains have been found in some pathogens. For more details see: www.frac.info

26

27

F 500 in Arable Crops and Bananas

Peanuts
F 500 displays an excellent protective and curative activity against the most important leaf diseases (Mycosphaerella spp.) that is far superior to all current standards. Similarly good results are achieved against other important pathogens, such as
untreated market product 200-250 g a.i./ha F 500 150 g a.i./ha

peanut rust (Puccinia arachidis) and leaf blotch (Phoma arachidicola). An additional advantage of F 500 is its efficacy against stem rot (Sclerotium rolfsii) and foot rot (Rhizoctonia solani). F 500 also exceeds the standards in terms of long-lasting activity. The result is a substantially higher yield.

Sugar Beets
F 500 is extremely effective against leaf spot (Cercospora beticola), the most important sugar beet disease. Furthermore it offers effective protection

against powdery mildew (Erysiphe betae), Ramularia leaf spot (Ramularia beticola), as well as beet rust (Uromyces betae). F 500 increases beet yield and sucrose content, that is superior to the standards.

Bananas
The most common disease in bananas is caused by Mycosphaerella fijiensis, which results in substantial reduction in both yield and quality. F 500 confirmed its excellent performance

in trials conducted under high disease pressure in the Atlantic zone of Costa Rica. With comparable spray intervals and identical application conditions, a better result was obtained against Mycosphaerella fijiensis than with conventional products. Further tests on banana leaves (microtests) have shown that F 500 significantly inhibits mycelial growth (kickback effect).

untreated competitor strobilurin 168 g a.i./ha market product 211 g a.i./ha F 500 168 g a.i./ha

untreated competitor strobilurin 100 g a.i./ha F 500 100 g a.i./ha

infection [%]

yield [t/ha]

youngest leaf spotted*

73 68 58 60 8 47 15 10

11

0,7 26 15 16 16 1 17 1,8
sucrose [%] infection [degree 0-6]

Activity of F 500 against Mycosphaerella spp.

19 trials world-wide, 2-4 applications, spray intervals 14 days, assessment 21-28 days after last application, 1998 -1999

Effect of F 500 on yield and sucrose content by control of Cercospora beticola

4 trials USA, 4-6 applications at 14 days intervals (competitor strobilurin and F 500) or 6-8 applications at 10 days intervals (market product), 1998

Activity of F 500 against Mycosphaerella fijiensis

3 trials Costa Rica, 6 applications, average of 7 assessments, 1998-1999

* The youngest leaf spotted is the first leaf presenting spots. The recount of leaves starts from the top of the plant; the leaf 1 is the first unfolded leaf.

Excellent activity against Mycosphaerella spp. Very good efficacy against other important leaf and stem
diseases

Excellent activity against

Cercospora beticola

Broad spectrum High sucrose content

Unparalleled strong against Mycosphaerella fijiensis Very good protective activity Good curative performance Long spray intervals

High yield

Performance shown against sensitive strains. Resistant strains have been found in some pathogens. For more details see: www.frac.info

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F 500 in Vegetables

Cucurbits
F 500 targets the most important pathogens in cucurbits. Compared with competing active ingredients, F 500 obtains the best results, particularly at high disease pressure.

F 500 proved its exceptionally strong performance especially in the control of Pseudoperonospora cubensis and Alternaria cucumerina. Markedly better results were obtained at a rate of 150 g a.i./ha, compared to another strobilurin at higher rates. Further important pathogens, such as Colletotrichum lagenarium and Sphaerotheca fuliginea, are also successfully controlled with F 500.

Beans
F 500 has been comprehensively tested in beans in important growing areas of Latin America. In these trials, the active ingredient was found to be highly effective against significant

diseases such as anthracnose (Colletotrichum lindemuthianum), angular leaf spot (Phaeoisariopsis griseola), and rust (Uromyces appendiculatus). F 500 was particularly active against Colletotrichum lindemuthianum, which reduces the quality of the beans by attacking the pods. Spray intervals could be increased due to the superior longlasting activity of F 500 when compared with standards.

Potatoes/Tomatoes
Late blight (Phytophthora infestans) and early blight (Alternaria solani) are the economically most significant diseases in potatoes and tomatoes.

F 500 successfully controls both pathogens. In tomatoes, the superior efficacy and longlasting activity of F 500 against Alternaria solani are of particular interest. The active ingredient also controls other important pathogens, such as Leveillula taurica and Septoria lycopersici.

untreated competitor strobilurin 250 g a.i./ha F 500 150 g a.i./ha

untreated competitor strobilurin 75-80 g a.i./ha MP* 150-187.5 g a.i./ha F 500 75 g a.i./ha

untreated competitor strobilurin 80 g a.i./ha F 500 100 g a.i./ha

infection with 44 P. cubensis [%]

97 infection
pods [%]

infection [%]

55

38 8 5 4

37 10 7

14

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infection with A. cucumerina [%]

48 infection leaves [%]

Activity of F 500 against Pseudoperonospora cubensis and Alternaria cucumerina

6 trials (P. cubensis) or 3 trials (A. cucumerina) world-wide, 3-4 applications, spray intervals 7-10 days, assessment 7-10 days (P. cubensis) or 15 days (A. cucumerina) after last application, 1997

Activity of F 500 against Colletotrichum lindemuthianum

3 trials Brazil, 2-3 applications, spray intervals 8-15 days, assessment 21-23 days after last application, 1997-1998

* MP: market product

Activity of F 500 against Alternaria solani in tomatoes

14 trials Brazil, 2-4 applications, spray intervals 7-10 days, assessment 12-14 days after last application, 1998-2000

Exceptional broad spectrum High efficacy Very good crop safety

Exceptional broad spectrum Very good activity against

the most important pathogens

Increased spray intervals Assurance of high quality

Excellent protection against Phytophthora infestans and

Alternaria solani

High degree of efficacy also against other pathogens Significantly higher yields in potatoes and tomatoes

Performance shown against sensitive strains. Resistant strains have been found in some pathogens. For more details see: www.frac.info

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F 500 The Mode of Action in the Fungus

Lights Out for the Fungus

As an active ingredient from the strobilurin group, F 500 blocks the mitochondrial electron transport and thus inhibits the fungus energy supply. As a consequence, the fungus dies.

Active Resistance Management

When using fungicides, there is generally the danger of the development of resistance. Responsible usage of the modern, highly efficient active ingredients from the strobilurin class is thus of utmost importance. BASF is accompanying its product launches with clearly defined strategies in order to minimize the resistance risk. These strategies are validated and further advanced to keep application instructions up to date. Resistance research studies and worldwide monitoring programs support these activities.

The Qol working group of the FRAC (Fungicide Resistance Action Committee) is elaborating recommendations* for the utilization of fungicides, including the strobilurin class. The goal is to maintain this group of chemistry as valuable components in farmers spray programs long term. The application recommendations by BASF, a founding member of FRAC, are in accordance with these guidelines. * see www.frac.info

A germinating spore requires large amounts of energy. This energy is supplied by the many mitochondria that are particularly located in those areas that have a high energy requirement, e.g. the tip of the germ tube. (Active mitochondria accumulate an applied dye agent so that they appear in bright red in the picture; in contrast less active ones appear green.)

The electron transport for supplying energy runs along the inner, folded membranes of the active mitochondrion.

F 500 interrupts this electron transport lights out for the fungus.

Principal Characteristics of the Resistance Strategy

Where possible, use of readymixes or, alternatively, tankmixes
with fungicides from other active ingredient classes

Limitation of the number of applications Alternation with other active ingredient classes in spraying
sequences

As protective use as possible Using recommended rates

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F 500 The Molecule and its Properties

Identity :
Trade name Common name BASF Code No Chemical name (IUPAC) F 500 Pyraclostrobin BAS 500 F Methyl N-(2-{[1-(4-chlorophenyl)-1H-pyrazol-3-yl] oxymethyl}phenyl) N-methoxycarbamate Empirical formula Molecular weight Structural formula C19 H18 Cl N3 O4 387.8

Physical and chemical properties :

Appearance at 20 C Odour Melting point Vapour pressure at 20 C Solubility at 20 C [g substance per 100 ml] in: water n-heptane toluol dichlormethane methanol acetone ethylacetate 0.00019 0.37 57 57 10.0 65 65 white to light beige crystals odourless 63.7 - 65.2 C 2.6 x 10
-8

Pa

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F 500 Toxicity and Environmental Behaviour

Low Toxicity
Due to the differences in bioavailability, F 500 acts highly selective. Whereas fungi are highly sensitive, the toxicity for mammals is minimal.

Neither F 500 nor its metabolites are mobile. Deeper soil levels, ground water, and drinking water are thus not endangered. Air With a value of 2.6 x 10-8 Pa, the vapour pressure of F 500 is extremely low. The danger of its escaping into the atmosphere is equally low. Water F 500 degrades very rapidly in aqueous systems (natural water/ sediment).

Limited Impact on Fauna

Birds The active ingredient is virtually non-toxic for birds. Earthworms and other beneficials F 500 is not harmful to earthworms. The same applies to ladybirds, predatory mites, and other beneficial organisms. Bees F 500 is not harmful to bees.

Natural Resources Not Affected

Soil F 500 decomposes into harmless metabolites in the soil. Neither the active ingredient nor its metabolites are stable in an active environment; therefore there is no persistence risk.

Fish, fish prey, and algae F 500 is quickly metabolized in natural water sediment systems. In numerous ecological studies it could be proven that in spite of a high sensitivity of fish, fish prey (e.g. daphnia), and green algae to F 500, there is no danger posed to water organisms when the compound is used as directed. Soil borne organisms The activity of soil organisms is not affected by F 500.

Toxicity Data for F 500 Acute oral Acute dermal Irritation to skin Irritation to eyes Sensitisation Mutagenicity LD50 rat > 5000 mg/kg LD50 rat > 2000 mg/kg irritating non-irritating non-sensitizing non-mutagenic

Ecotoxicity Data for F 500 Birds Earthworms Bees Aquatic organisms non-toxic, LD50 > 2000 mg/kg non-toxic, LD50 (14 d) 566 mg/kg non-toxic to bees1) toxic to fish, fish prey and algae, LC/EC50 < 1 mg/l
2)

Beneficial organisms (6 types) according to current results: non-toxic1)

1) Formulations used in tests 2) When used in accordance to the directions and good agricultural practice, there is no danger of permanent damage to aquatic organisms

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F 500 The Advantages at a Glance

Extraordinary fungicidal active ingredient in over 60 crops Fast activity Long-lasting activity High intrinsic activity, low application rates Extraordinarily broad spectrum Very good crop safety Positive physiological effects Increases yield and quality

profitable

F 500 The premium fungicide

reli able

flexible

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 = Registered trademark of BASF Copyright BASF

Agricultural Products

BASF Aktiengesellschaft Agricultural Center D-67117 Limburgerhof Germany www.agro.basf.com

BASF Aktiengesellschaft Agricultural Center 67117 Limburgerhof Germany www.agro.basf.com

APUP 4776E 12.05-3.0