Non-target Plants (NTP) Studies for Agrochemicals
After the application to various crops, non-target plants are often exposed to spray-drift, or in the case of accidental exposure. Therefore, there is a need to understand what impact do your agrochemical products have on surrounding plants and earthworms. Current regulatory studies evaluating the effects of agrochemicals on plants and soils require testing on a range of non-target plants, covering different taxonomic species, for seedling emergence and vegetative vigor. At BOC Sciences, our experienced team has been conducting plant tests for more than 20 years and has extensive experience across about 40 different plant species. Our main areas of work are testing of plant protection products, biocides. Therefore, our team of ecotoxicologists can help you design and plan a testing program to collect the data you need to meet regulatory requirements, assess the environmental impact of your agricultural products and facilitate registration of your agrochemical products.
Agrochemicals NTP Studies
- Environmental risk assessment on NTP requires an analysis of solutions sprayed on soil or plants or incorporated into the soil, and the capabilities provided at BOC Sciences allow us to perform a wide range of analytical assessments in water and soil.
1) For seedling emergence and early growth analysis, the test item is mixed into the soil or sprayed on the soil after seed planting (analysis is usually required to confirm the soil concentration).
2) Analysis of plant vigor: spraying of the test article onto the seedlings.
- We carefully follow and report the phytotoxic effects, such as reduced germination, stunted growth, shrinkage, plant weight, etc.
- We provide data on your agrochemical products that may harm non-target invertebrates living on plants or in the soil, such as parasitic wasps (Aphidius rhopalosiphi) and predatory mites (Typhlodromus pyri). BOC Sciences' team has rich experience in evaluating these species under basic and extended (reproductive) conditions.
- Our scientists also have extensive experience in other soil study designs, such as acute and reproductive toxicity tests for earthworms (Eisenia fetida) and reproduction assays for Collembola (Folsomia candida).
- Seedling emergence test (OECD 208, OCSPP 850.4100)
- Vigor testing (OECD 227, OCSPP 850.4150)
- Early seedling growth toxicity test (OCSPP 850.4230)
- Effects on succeeding crops (EPPO PP 1/207(2))
Facilities for NTP Studies
- At BOC Sciences, our specially designed climate-controlled greenhouses allow NTP testing to be conducted throughout the year.
- Our state-of-the-art equipment supports optimal conditions in terms of light intensity and quality, temperature and humidity.
Features of Our Services
- The selection of species will depend on the specific intended use of the product and the specific regulatory requirements.
- Our non-target plant studies are based on the selection of appropriate soil substrates, climatic conditions, lighting, analytical support, and adequate historical control data, including reference substances.
BOC Sciences Advantages
- Highly specialized technical and analytical services for the worldwide registration and regulatory compliance of agrochemicals
- Robust analytical testing programs that span from research and product development through the production process to final product
- Relies on broad industrial experience, ensuring that all of our work meets the high standards expected by our clients
- Our regulatory experts, toxicology consultants, scientists and inspectors will ensure that you receive maximum levels of guidance, testing and inspection you need.
References
- Kuhlmann, U.; et al. SELECTION OF NONTARGET SPECIES FOR HOST SPECIFICITY TESTING OF ENTOMOPHAGOUS BIOLOGICAL CONTROL AGENTS. International Symposium on Biological Control of Arthropods. 2005.
- Romeis, J.; et al. The potential of transgenic chickpeas for pest control and possible effects on non-target arthropods. Crop Protection. 2004. 23(10): 923-938.