EPA OK’s MBI-005 bioherbicide from Marrone Bio Innovations

In California, Marrone Bio Innovations reported that the EPA has approved MBI-005, a broad-spectrum selective bioherbicide for potential use on a variety of crops, turf and ornamentals. MBI-005 is produced by a Streptomyces species that kills weeds.

Field tests have shown that when mixed with leading chemical herbicides, MBI-005 increases their effectiveness, allowing for the use of fewer chemicals while delivering better weed control. Additionally, MBI-005 has shown broad-spectrum pre-emergence activity, killing weeds as they germinate, as well as selective post-emergence on a variety of crops, turf and ornamentals. MBI-005 is non-toxic to non-target organisms such as birds, fish, and bees.