Brazilian Agriculture Minister Antônio Andrade has signed a declaration of phytosanitary emergency in the state of Mato Grosso, in order to tackle a cotton bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) outbreak that has threatened crops.

The declaration builds on emergency statuses for five other states of Bahia, Goiás, Minas Gerais, Piauí and Mato Grosso do Sul. The moth is mainly a problem as its larvae feed on plants.

Website Agricultura.ruralbr.com.br reported the ordinance would allow growers to import pesticides containing emamectin benzoate, while the state's farmers will engage in emergency measures recommended at a national level by the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa).

Measures also stipulate periods to leave soil uncultivated in particular areas to help eradicate the pest.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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