11.14.05
U.S. Department of Agriculture scientists are investigating how brighteners similar to those found in laundry detergent can help fight diamondback moths. Diamondback moths are a pest to vegetable crops including canola, cabbage, turnip and broccoli.
Certain naturally-occurring viruses have been suggested as an approach to help control the moths, but the viruses tend to act slowly, scientists stated. Fluorescent brighteners used with the moth-infecting viruses may enhance the virus’ potency. The brighteners are the same type commonly used in laundry detergents to brighten the appearance of clothes.
Certain naturally-occurring viruses have been suggested as an approach to help control the moths, but the viruses tend to act slowly, scientists stated. Fluorescent brighteners used with the moth-infecting viruses may enhance the virus’ potency. The brighteners are the same type commonly used in laundry detergents to brighten the appearance of clothes.