Sero-X moves the insecticide world

THERE has been huge movement in the insecticide world with the launch of Sero-X, which hopes to revolutionise pest control with a special active ingredient.

The pesticide, which was developed by Wee Waa company Innovate Ag, is the first bio-insecticide that is safe for beneficial insects including bees, lady birds and spiders as well as humans.

It’s been 15 years in the making after Department of Primary Industries (DPI) research scientist, Robert Mensah found chemical properties in commonly found plant, Butterfly Pea.

Innovate Ag partnered with researchers from the University of Queensland's Institute for Molecular Bioscience, which lead to professor David Craik finding active peptides  in the plant.

Peptides have a range of biological activities, which has made them useful for the pharmaceuticals and agriculture.

The mini proteins contain insecticidal, which prevents pests from laying eggs on the leaves.

Mr Mensah said if they do lay eggs on plants which have had Sero-X applied to them, the pests will die.

The products was officially launched earlier in the month, on May 12, at the Watts’ family property in Wee Waa.

NSW Deputy Premier, John Barilaro, attended the event, with industry stakeholders and other key politicians such as Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton, State Member for Barwon Kevin Humphries and NSW Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Melinda Pavey.