Nematec is the main form of combating wood wasp (Sirex noctilio), a pest that affects pine plantations in the country. Composed by the nematode Deladenus siricidicola, this biological agent sterilizes female wood wasps. Associated with proper forest management, the use of Nematec allows one to keep the pest under control and reduce the losses caused by its attack. An average of 70% of pest parasitism is possible and, in some places, up to 100%. The use of Nematec is extremely effective and does not harm the environment. The application sites include the states of Paraná, São Paulo, Santa Catarina, Rio Grande do Sul and Minas Gerais. The pine species planted in Brazil today serve the most diverse forest-based industries, such as paper, cellulose, laminators, sawmill, furniture, energy, and resin ones, among others. However, the supply of good quality raw materials to support such businesses can be put at risk, due to the severe damage caused by the wood wasp, a pest from Europe, Asia and North Africa that was recorded for the first time in Brazil in 1988. A comprehensive Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program, which has Nematec as the main tool for biological control, is conducted by Embrapa Forestry and Funcema (National Fund for Forest Pest Control). Analysis of scenarios when the pest was introduced in the country identified that the pest could cause serious damage and even make pine production in Brazil unfeasible. This technological solution was developed by Embrapa in partnership with other institutions.

This technological solution was developed by Embrapa in partnership with other institution(s).