Biocontrol of plant pathogens, an ecosystem recovery project.

Intro

Agricultural sustainability

We are researching the development of new natural solutions to combat some of the diseases of interest in agroforestry that threaten natural systems.

At ARQUIMEA Agrotech we are working on obtaining a compound of natural origin, formed by microorganisms, with the capacity to combat and eliminate the main plant pathogens that affect the Dehesas (pasturelands).

  • +500,000 Trees affected in the last 25 years by plant pathogen related disease
  • +1,000 Species affected by the dry disease
  • TOP 100 Most damaging invasive alien species in the world as rated by IUCN

Challenge

Dehesas, an ecosystem that is unique to the world

Dehesas are a type of ecosystem found exclusively in the southwest region of the Iberian Peninsula. Made up mainly of holm oaks, cork oaks and different types of pasture and scrubland, it has been a key factor in the development of livestock farming and the forestry products industry (firewood, cork, mushrooms, etc.).

However, this ecosystem is at serious risk of disappearing due to the action of various plant pathogens that kill holm oaks and cork oaks, preventing the affected land from being used again.

Solution

First solution on the market

At ARQUIMEA Agrotech we strive to develop a market solution capable of combating the main plant pathogens that affect Dehesas.

This solution involves protecting an ecosystem that is unique to the world, the source of products like acorn-fed Iberian ham, honey, cork and all kinds of lamb, beef and pork products.

Results

Impact

  • Recovery of an ecosystem that is unique to the world
  • Reduction of pesticide use
  • Biocontrol of diseases of interest in agroforestry