The agronomics of bio-inputs: Evidence from soybean production in Brazil

Abstract

Technological advancements in agricultural bio-inputs already offer sustainable alternatives to complement or replace chemical inputs in certain agricultural practices. This study presents the bio-inputs commercially available in Brazil, a leading country in this sector globally, and their adoption by soybean farmers, the main agricultural commodity produced in Brazil. The biological alternatives available on the market were summarized based on the directions for use available on the product labels and interviews with representatives of the private companies marketing the products. The adoption of biologicals was estimated based on a survey conducted with marketing representatives in 8 agricultural regions across Brazil. The study characterized the portfolio of biological solutions currently available for soybean production, providing the agronomic positioning of inoculants, biofungicides, bioinsecticides, and bionematicides. Some biological products are positioned as replacements for chemicals, as in the case of nematicides or fungicides in initial applications under conditions of low pressure. Biologicals are also used in a complementary way with chemicals, as in the case of insecticides, bringing the benefit of increased effectiveness in pest control and reduced resistance to chemicals. Adoption levels vary across product categories and according to the technological levels of farming systems and regions. This study provides one of the first comprehensive assessments of the agronomics of bio-inputs and offers insights into technological transitions toward more sustainable agriculture. It is expected to help agricultural science professionals, students, and farmers gain a better understanding of bio-input applications in crop protection and plant growth.