Extended laboratory tests

Eurofins Agroscience Services conduct extended laboratory studies according to the recent IOBC/WPRS guidelines with parasitoids (Aphidius rhopalosiphi, Trichogramma cacoeciae), predatory mites (Typhlodromus pyri, Phytoseiulus persimilis), aphidophagous predators (Chrysoperla carnea, Coccinella septempunctata) and anthocorid bugs (Orius laevigatus).

Standard studies are usually performed in Southern Germany. Depending on the climatic conditions and the time schedule, as well as the crop (e.g. citrus) in which the product should be tested, aged residue studies are located in Spain and can be conducted between March and November.

Standard studies can be performed throughout the year, provided that plants can be cultivated indoor (laboratory, greenhouse) during winter. Aged residue studies can be conducted between May and October (last applications August/September).

The choice of the plants depends on the crop where the tested product is used and/or suitability for the test organism. Most frequently apple (Malus), vine (Vitis vinifera), cereals, e.g. barley (Hordeum vulgare) and dwarf bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) are used. Besides, leaves of broad bean (Vicia faba), maize (Zea mays), sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum), cabbage (Brassica oleracea), e.g. broccoli, or sugar beet (Beta vulgaris) can serve as substrate for exposure.

Standard test

Test organisms are exposed to treated plant material (detached leaves, leaf discs or whole plants) under laboratory conditions. Plants are sprayed in the laboratory, in the field or outdoor near the testing facility using field application equipment.

Drip irrigation

Alternatively to the spray application we offer studies with a drip irrigation technique in the greenhouse. The test item solution is not sprayed directly on potted plants but is applied onto the soil using a dispenser. Leaves are cut from the treated plants for exposure of test organisms.

Persistence test

Studies with aged residues are designed to assess PPP persistence under outdoor climatic conditions. Leaves for exposure are taken from field crops or from potted plants sprayed outside, simulating a field application. Residual toxicity is evaluated in several bioassays started in defined intervals after treatment. Plants can be protected from rain during ageing of pesticide deposits under an UV-permeable, acrylic glass roof outside of our testing facility.