WO2021259761A1

WO2021259761A1 - Use of isotianil against fungal diseases in grapevines and fruit crops

Info

Publication number: WO2021259761A1
Application number: PCT/EP2021/066444
Authority: WO
Inventors: Shane Mark Trainer; Roberto VITELLI; Ian MCMASTER
Original assignee: Bayer Aktiengesellschaft
Priority date: 2020-06-25
Filing date: 2021-06-17
Publication date: 2021-12-30

Abstract

The present invention relates to the use of Isotianil (formula (I)), (I) for controlling fungal diseases in fruit crops.

Description

Use of Isotianil against fungal diseases in grapevines and fruit crops

Isotianil of the formula (I)

is a fungicide and known from, e.g., WO 99/024413, WO 2006/098128, and WO 96/29871.

Botrytis bunch rot (also called grey mold) is a disease of grapevines caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea. It can cause serious losses in grape yields and represents one of the most important diseases of grapevines. The fungus can occur anytime during the growing season, but the disease most commonly appears near the harvest time.

Botrytis is always present on the fruitset and favors moist, humid, and warm environmental conditions. To start a bunch rot infection it requires a wound which can be caused by insects, wind or other accidental damage.

There are a number of fungicides available on the market for control of botrytis bunch rot. However, Botrytis cinerea has been observed to develop resistance against fungicide classes in many cases, and it is therefore considered a high risk pathogen. A solution with low risk of resistance development will provide growers with an important additional treatment tool.

Anthracnose caused by the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides leads to serious post harvest losses in tropical fruit crops worldwide. The fungus overwinters on infected plant parts, seeds or in the soil, and spreads by splashing and blowing rain or by being distributed with insects, humans or equipment. Typically, infections occur on seeds, plant parts (leaves, twigs etc) and fruits. Disease develops later, upon fruit ripening, favoured by high temperatures and humid or moist weather. Symptoms are usually not obvious while the fruit is on the tree. Infections only become apparent after the fruit is picked and starts to soften. The symptoms on fruits include water-soaked areas with sunken dark spots and with pinky/salmon coloured spore masses. As the fruit ages, decay spreads throughout the entire fruit, causing the flesh to turn brown and water.

Stem end rot is a disease complex caused by several fungal pathogens of the general Diplodia and Phomopsis, especially Dothiorella dominicana, Dothiorella mangiferae, Phomopsis spp., Botryodiplodia theobromae and Lasiodiplodia theobromae, in fruits, especially tropical fruits, worldwide. It leads to serious post harvest losses. The fungi are natural inhabitants on the branches of the trees and grow into the stem of the fruit before harvest. Fruit placed on the ground for desapping can also be infected from the bark, twig litter or the soil. As the fruit ripens after harvest, a dark brown to black rot begins at the stem end as a dark brown ring and proceeds towards the other end of the fruit. Yellow sigatoka is one of the more important leaf spot diseases of bananas caused by an ascomycetous fungus (Mycosphaerella musicola) and marked initially by small yellowish-green streaks usually on the upper surface of the leaf. It impacts banana production through reducing photsynthetic capabilities of the banana plant and subsequently the ability to produce banana bunches.

Several disease management options, inclunding cultural methods, resistant cultivars, and chemical control products are available for anthracnose, stem end rot disease complex, yellow sigatoka and Downy mildew. However, from a resistance management point of view, an additional chemical control option with a different mode of action is desirable.

Isotianil derivatives are described for controlling selected fungal pathogens in plants, i.e. rice blast ( Pyricularia oryzae ) in rice (WO 99/24413), or Black Sigatoka {Mycosphaerella fijii ) in banana (WO 2010/037482.).

It has now been found that Isotianil and/or mixtures of Isotianil with at least one further active ingredient are particularly suitable for controlling other fungal diseases in grapes and tropical fruit crops.

Summary

Aspect 1 refers to the use of Isotianil (formula (I))

for controlling a disease caused by a fungus in crops, preferably in fruit crops, preferably from the group selected from grapevines and fruit crops, especially tropical fruits such as banana, mango, papaya, pitaya, and avocado, wherein the fungal disease is selected from the group consisting of Botrytis bunch rot, Downy mildew, Anthracnose, Yellow Sigatoka and Stem rot, more preferably Botrytis bunch rot, Anthracnose, Yellow Sigatoka and Stem rot. A more preferred embodiment of Aspect 1 is the use for controlling fungal diseases in grapevines, banana, mango, papaya, pitaya, and avocado, wherein the fungal disease is selected from the group consisting of Botrytis bunch rot, Downy mildew, Anthracnose, Yellow Sigatoka and Stem rot, more preferably Botrytis bunch rot, Anthracnose, Yellow Sigatoka and Stem rot.

Aspect 2 refers to the use of Isotianil for controlling a fungus causing a disease which is selected from the group consisting of Botrytis cinerea, Plasmopara viticola, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Mycosphaerella musicola, Dothiorella dominicana, Phomopsis spp., Botryodiplodia theobromae and Lasiodiplodia theobromae.. In one preferred embodiment of the two aspects, the fungus is Botrytis cinerea.

In one preferred embodiment of the two aspects, the fungus is Plasmopara viticola.

In one preferred embodiment of the two aspects, the fungus is Colletotrichum gloeosporioides.

In one preferred embodiment of the two aspects, the fungus is Mycosphaerella musicola.

In one preferred embodiment of the two aspects, the fungus is selected from the group cinsisting of Dothiorella dominicana, Phomopsis spp., Botryodiplodia theobromae and Lasiodiplodia theobromae.

Aspect 3 refers to a method for controlling fungal diseases comprising the step of treating a plant or part of a plant, preferably, wherein the plant or part of a plant is a plant or part of a plant of a fruit crop, more preferably selected from the group consisting of grapevines and tropical fruits even more preferably from the group consisting of grapevine, banana, mango, papaya, pitaya, and avocado, with Isotianil or a combination of Isotianil and one or more further active ingredients selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, or products for reducing plant stress.

Aspect 4 refers to a method for controlling a fungus selected from the group consisting of Botrytis cinerea, Plasmopara viticola, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Mycosphaerella musicola, Dothiorella dominicana, Phomopsis spp., Botryodiplodia theobromae and Lasiodiplodia theobromae comprising the step of treating a plant or part of a plant, preferably, wherein the plant or part of a plant is a plant or part of a plant of a fruit crop, more preferably selected from the group consisting of grapevines and tropical fruits even more preferably from the group consisting of grapevine, banana, mango, papaya, pitaya, and avocado, with Isotianil or a combination of Isotianil and one or more further active ingredients selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, or products for reducing plant stress.

One preferred embodiment refers to said methods, wherein a further active ingredient is selected from the group consisting of Fosetyl-Al; mono- or dibasic sodium or potassium or ammonium phosphites; Trifloxystrobin.

One preferred embodiment refers to said methods, wherein a further active ingredient is Fosetyl-Al.

One preferred embodiment refers to said methods, wherein a further active ingredient is Trifloxystrobin. Another aspect refers to a combination comprising Isotianil and Fosetyl-Al.

Another aspect refers to a combination comprising Isotianil and Trifloxystrobin. One preferred embodiment refers to any of the two combinations, wherein the combination is part of a formulation.

Definitions

In case a ratio between two active ingredients is mentioned, it is understood the ratio is given in w/w. (e.g. a ratio in a combination of Isotianil and Trifloxystrobin of 5:1 means 5 g of Isotianil are present in such a combination for each g of Trifloxystrobin in said combination).

Grapevine means all varieties of Vitis vinifera, including those used to produce grapes for fresh consumption (table grapes), processed to make wine or juice or dried to produce raisins, and also includes seedless varieties.

Fruit crops means pome fruit, for example all varieties of apples, bananas, grapevines, pears, quince; berries, for example Ribesioidae sp. like strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, red and black currant and gooseberry; citrus fruit, for example oranges, lemons, grapefruit and tangerines; stone fruit, for example peaches, all varieties of mango ( Mangifera indica), nectarines, cherries, plums, common plums, apricots; avocado ( Persea Americana, also called Persea gratissima), banana (of the family Musaceae) and papaya ( Carica papaya).

Tropical fruits means mango (. Mangifera indica), nectarines, avocado ( Persea Americana, also called Persea gratissima), banana (of the family Musaceae) and papaya ( Carica papaya).

Isotianil may, if appropriate, be present in the form of mixtures of various isomeric forms which are possible, in particular stereoisomers, such as optical isomers.

Isotianil can therefore be employed for protecting grapevines and other fruit crop plants such as tropical fruit crop plants against attack or delaying the attack/symptoms by the above mentioned pathogens within a certain post-treatment period. The period within which protection is afforded generally extends from 1 to 30 days, preferably 1 to 14 days, after the treatment of the plants with the active ingredient(s). Depending on the form of application, the accessibility of the active ingredient(s) to the plant can be controlled in a targeted manner.

Depending on the plant species or plant varieties, their location and their growth conditions (soils, climate, vegetation period, nutrition), the treatment according to the invention may also result in superadditive effects. For example, the following effects are possible, which extend beyond the effects which are actually to be expected: reduced application rates and/or a widened spectrum of action and/or an increased efficacy of the active ingredient(s) and compositions which can be employed in accordance with the invention, better plant growth, increased tolerance to high or low temperatures, increased tolerance to drought or water or soil salinity, improved flowering performance, easier harvesting, accelerated maturation, higher yields, larger fruit, greater plant height, more intensive green colour of the leaf, earlier flowering, better quality and/or higher nutritional value of the harvested crops, higher sugar concentration in the fruits, better storability and/or processability of the harvested crops.

At certain application rates, Isotianil can also exert a strengthening effect on plants. They are therefore suitable for mobilizing the plant defence system against attack by microbial and animal pathogens. This may be one of the reasons for the increased efficacy of the combinations according to the invention, for example against fungi. Plant-strengthening (resistance-inducing) substances in the present context are also to be understood as meaning those substances or substance combinations which are capable of stimulating the plant defence system such that the treated plants, when subsequently inoculated with microbial and animal pathogens, have a considerable degree of resistance to these microbial and animal pathogens. The substances according to the invention can therefore be employed for protecting plants against attack by the abovementioned pathogens within a certain post-treatment period.

Mean separation as used herein is also sometimes called "multiple comparisons", mean separations are comparisons of every pair of means. For example, if an ANOVA test for treatments will only show if at least one mean differs from the others, the objective is to identify where and how many differences exist. For example, suppose one has 4 treatments, and the ANOVA test gives P=.0238, one concludes that at least one of the treatments is different. But there would be no information about how they differ. Possibly Treat 1 differs from Treat2 and Treat3, but not from Treat4. Mean separation works by comparing 1 to 2, 1 to 3, 1 to 4, 2 to 3, 2 to 4, and 3 to 4 and so on. By making these comparisons, one can see where a difference occurs. Generally, the number of tests is: t*(t-l)/2 where t is the number of treatments. Especially when having several treatments (e.g. a large number) it is difficult to report the results, properly. A common convention is to use letters. For the example above, results might look like:

mean is assigned the letter “a”. Since treatments 2, 3 and 4 all have “a”, they are not considered different. Treatment 1 does differ from treatments 2 and 3, since they have no letter in common. But treatment 1 does not differ from treatment 4. In fact, treatment 4 does not differ from any other mean, as it has a letter in common with all other treatments.

Uses

In a first aspect, the present invention relates to the use of Isotianil (1ST) of formula (I)

for controlling fungal diseases, i.e. a disease caused by a fungus, preferably in fruit crops, preferably from the group selected from grapevines and fruit crops, especially tropical fruits such as banana, mango, papaya, pitaya, and avocado.

Preferably, the fungal disease is selected from the group consisting of Botrytis bunch rot, Downy mildew, Anthracnose, Yellow Sigatoka and Stem rot more preferably Botrytis bunch rot, Anthracnose, Yellow Sigatoka and Stem rot.

Another aspect of the present invention refers to the use of Isotianil for controlling a fungi causing a disease selected from Botrytis cinerea, Plasmopara viticola, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Mycosphaerella musicola, Dothiorella dominicana, Phomopsis spp., Botryodiplodia theobromae and Lasiodiplodia theobromae. Botrytis bunch rot

In one specific embodiment, the use of the invention refers to the use of Isotianil for controlling Botrytis bunch rot. In a preferred embodiment, the Botrytis bunch rot is caused by Botrytis cinerea.

Thus, the invention also relates to the use of Isotianil for controlling Botrytis cinerea.

Preferably, the use of Isotianil refers to controlling Botrytis bunch rot or the fungus Botrytis cinerea in grapevines (Vitis vinifera).

Downy mildew

In another specific embodiment, the use of the invention refers to the use of Isotianil for controlling Downy mildew. In a preferred embodiment, the Downy mildew is caused by Plasmopara viticola.

Thus, the invention also relates to the use of Isotianil for controlling Plasmopara viticola. Preferably, the use of Isotianil refers to controlling Downy mildew or the fungus Plasmopara viticola in grapevines ( Vitis vinifera).

Anthracnose

In another specific embodiment, the use of the invention refers to the use of Isotianil for controlling Anthracnose. In a preferred embodiment, the Anthracnose is caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides.

Thus, the invention also relates to the use of Isotianil for controlling Colletotrichum gloeosporioides.

Preferably, the use of Isotianil refers to controlling Anthracnose or the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides in at least one plant selected from the group consisting of mango, papaya, pitaya, and avocado ( Persea americana, also called Persea gratissima), more preferred in mango ( Mangifera indica ) and papaya, especially preferred in avocado.

Yellow sigatoka

In yet another specific embodiment, the use of the invention refers to the use of Isotianil for controlling Yellow sigatoka. In a preferred embodiment, the Yellow sigatoka is caused by Mycosphaerella musicola.

Thus, the invention also relates to the use of Isotianil for controlling Mycosphaerella musicola.

Preferably, the use of Isotianil refers to controlling Yellow sigatoka or the fungus Mycosphaerella musicola in banana.

Stem end rot

In yet another specific embodiment, the use of the invention refers to the use of Isotianil for controlling Stem end rot. In a preferred embodiment, the Stem end rot is caused by any one of the fungi selected from the group consisting of Dothiorella dominicana, Phomopsis spp., Botryodiplodia theobromae and Lasiodiplodia theobromae.

Thus, the invention also relates to the use of Isotianil for controlling Dothiorella dominicana.

Thus, the invention also relates to the use of Isothianil for controlling Phomopsis spp..

Thus, the invention also relates to the use of Isothianil for controlling Botryodiplodia theobromae.

Thus, the invention also relates to the use of Isothianil for controlling Lasiodiplodia theobromae.

Preferably, the use of Isotianil refers to controlling Stem end rot or any one of the fungi selected from the group consisting of Dothiorella dominicana, Phomopsis spp., Botryodiplodia theobromae and Lasiodiplodia theobromae. in mango and/or avocado.

Methods

Another aspect of the present invention refers to a method for controlling fungal diseases comprising the step of treating a plant or part of a plant with Isotianil or a combination of Isotianil and one or more further active ingredients selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, or products for reducing plant stress.

In one preferred embodiment of the invention, a plant or part of a plant in the methods of the invention is treated with a combination comprising Isotianil and Trifloxystrobin as active ingredients.

In a further preferred embodiment, a plant or part of a plant in the methods of the invention is treated with a combination comprising Isotianil and at least one further active ingredient selected from Fosetyl-Al, mono- and dibasic sodium, potassium and ammonium phosphites (e.g., Phostrol).

Preferably, the fungal disease is selected from the group consisting of Downy mildew, Botrytis bunch rot, Anthracnose, Yellow Sigatoka and Stem rot more preferably Botrytis bunch rot, Anthracnose, Yellow Sigatoka and Stem rot.

Preferably the plant or part of a plant is grapevine, banana, mango, papaya, pitaya, and/or avocado.

In another preferred embodiment, the methods of the invention are further characterized in that the application is a drip application.

Botrytis bunch rot

In one specific embodiment, the method of the invention refers to a method for controlling Botrytis bunch rot comprising the step of treating a plant or part of a plant with Isotianil or Isotianil and one or more further active ingredients selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, or products for reducing plant stress. In a preferred embodiment, the Botrytis bunch rot is caused by Botrytis cinerea.

Thus, the invention also relates to a method for controlling Botrytis cinerea comprising the step of treating a plant or part of a plant with Isotianil or or Isotianil and one or more further active ingredients selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, or products for reducing plant stress.

In a further preferred embodiment, a plant or part of a plant is treated with a combination comprising Isotianil and Trifloxystrobin as active ingredients. In a further preferred embodiment, a plant or part of a plant in the methods of the invention is treated with a combination comprising Isotianil and at least one further active ingredient selected from Fosetyl-AI; and mono- or dibasic sodium or potassium or ammonium phosphites (e.g., Phostrol), more preferably Fosetyl-

Al.

Preferably, the said method refers to controlling Botrytis bunch rot or the fungus Botrytis cinerea and the plant is a grapevine or part thereof.

Downy mildew

Downy mildew is caused by Plasmopara viticola

In one specific embodiment, the method of the invention refers to a method for controlling Downy mildew comprising the step of treating a plant or part of a plant with Isotianil or Isotianil and one or more further active ingredients selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, or products for reducing plant stress. In a preferred embodiment, the Downy mildew is caused by Plasmopara viticola.

Thus, the invention also relates to a method for controlling Plasmopara viticola comprising the step of treating a plant or part of a plant with Isotianil or Isotianil and one or more further active ingredients selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, or products for reducing plant stress.

In a further preferred embodiment, a plant or part of a plant is treated with a combination comprising Isotianil and Trifloxystrobin as active ingredients.

In a further preferred embodiment, a plant or part of a plant in the methods of the invention is treated with a combination comprising Isotianil and at least one further active ingredient selected from Fosetyl-Al; and mono- or dibasic sodium or potassium or ammonium phosphites (e.g., Phostrol), more preferably Fosetyl- Al.

Preferably, the said method refers to controlling Downy mildew or the fungus Plasmopara viticola and the plant is a grapevine or part thereof.

Anthracnose

In one specific embodiment, the method of the invention refers to a method for controlling Anthracnose comprising the step of treating a plant or part of a plant with Isotianil or Isotianil and one or more further active ingredients selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, or products for reducing plant stress. In a preferred embodiment, the Anthracnose is caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides.

Thus, the invention also relates to a method for controlling Colletotrichum gloeosporioides comprising the step of treating a plant or part of a plant with Isotianil or or Isotianil and one or more further active ingredients selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, or products for reducing plant stress.

Preferably, the said method refers to controlling Anthracnose or the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and the plant is at least one plant selected from the group consisting of a mango, papaya, pitaya, and avocado, more preferred mango and papaya, especially preferred avocado; or a part of any of the afore mentioned plants.

Yellow sigatoka

In one specific embodiment, the method of the invention refers to a method for controlling Yellow sigatoka comprising the step of treating a plant or part of a plant with Isotianil or Isotianil and one or more further active ingredients selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, or products for reducing plant stress. In a preferred embodiment, the Yellow sigatoka is caused by Mycosphaerella musicola.

Thus, the invention also relates to a method for controlling Mycosphaerella musicola comprising the step of treating a plant or part of a plant with Isotianil or or Isotianil and one or more further active ingredients selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, or products for reducing plant stress.

Preferably, the said method refers to controlling Yellow sigatoka or the fungus Mycosphaerella musicola and the plant is a banana plant or part thereof.

Stem end rot

In yet another specific embodiment, the use of the invention refers to the use of Isotianil for controlling Stem end rot. In a preferred embodiment, the Stem end rot is caused by any one of the fungi selected from the group consisting of Dothiorella dominicana, Phomopsis spp., Botryodiplodia theobromae and Lasiodiplodia theobromae..

In one specific embodiment, the method of the invention refers to a method for controlling Stem end rot comprising the step of treating a plant or part of a plant with Isotianil or Isotianil and one or more further active ingredients selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, or products for reducing plant stress. In a preferred embodiment, the Stem end rot is caused by any one of the fungi selected from the group consisting of Dothiorella dominicana, Phomopsis spp., Botryodiplodia theobromae and Lasiodiplodia theobromae.

Thus, the invention also relates to a method for controlling Dothiorella dominicana comprising the step of treating a plant or part of a plant with Isotianil or Isotianil and one or more further active ingredients selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, or products for reducing plant stress.

Thus, the invention also relates to a method for controlling Phomopsis spp. comprising the step of treating a plant or part of a plant with or Isotianil and one or more further active ingredients selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, or products for reducing plant stress.

Thus, the invention also relates to a method for controlling Botryodiplodia theobromae comprising the step of treating a plant or part of a plant with Isotianil or Isotianil and one or more further active ingredients selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, or products for reducing plant stress.

Thus, the invention also relates to a method for controlling Lasiodiplodia theobromae comprising the step of treating a plant or part of a plant with Isotianil or Isotianil and one or more further active ingredients selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, or products for reducing plant stress. In a further preferred embodiment, a plant or part of a plant is treated with a combination comprising Isotianil and Trifloxystrobin as active ingredients.

Preferably, the said methods refer to controlling Stem end rot or any of the fungi any one of the fungi selected from the group consisting of Dothiorella dominicana, Phomopsis spp., Botryodiplodia theobromae and Lasiodiplodia theobromae and the plant is at least one plant selected from the group consisting of in mango and avocado, especially preferred avocado; or a part of any of the afore mentioned plants.

Another further preferred embodiment of the instant invention is the use and the methods cited above, wherein the method of use is by foliar spray application is within the range of from 5 g/ha to 900 g/ha such as 50 g/ha to 800 g/ha, or 250 g /ha to 500 g /ha Isotianil.

Another further preferred embodiment of the instant invention is the use and the methods cited above, wherein the foliar spray application is repeated, preferably every 6 to 28 days, more preferably every 7 to 21 days, more preferably every 14 to 18 days.

Another subject matter of the instant invention is the uses and the methods cited above, wherein Isotianil is used in combination with at least one further active ingredient selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, soil-improvement products or products for reducing plant stress, preferably Fosetyl-Al, mono- and dibasic sodium, potassium and/or ammonium phosphites (e.g., Phostrol), preferably Fosetyl-Al and/or Trifloxystrobin, in order to widen the spectrum of action or to prevent the development of resistance, for example. Also a combination of Isotianil and Fosetyl-Al or Trifloxystrobin may have a synergistic effect.

Combinations

Furthermore, the present invention relates to combinations of Isotianil with at least one further active ingredient selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, or products for reducing plant stress. For example, such combinations are advantagenous in order to widen the spectrum of action or to prevent the development of resistance, for example, for the treatment of bunch rot and anthracnose. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to combinations, e.g. in form of a formulation, comprising Isotianil with at least one further active ingredient selected from Fosetyl-Al, and mono- and dibasic sodium, potassium and ammonium phosphites (e.g., Phostrol), preferably Fosetyl-Al, as active ingredients. In one embodiment, Isotianil and the at least one further active ingredient selected from Fosetyl- Al, and mono- and dibasic sodium, potassium and ammonium phosphites (e.g., Phostrol), preferably Fosetyl- Al, are the only fungicides in such a combination or formulation. In another embodiment, Isotianil and one further active ingredient selected from Fosetyl-Al, and mono- and dibasic sodium, potassium and ammonium phosphites (e.g., Phostrol), preferably Fosetyl-Al, are the only active ingredients in such a combination, e.g. a formulation.

In a further preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to a combination comprising, e.g. in form of a formulation, Isotianil and Trifloxystrobin as active ingredients. In one embodiment, Isotianil and Trifloxystrobin are the only fungicides in such a combination or formulation. In another embodiment, Isotianil and Trifloxystrobin are the only active ingredients in such a combination, e.g. a formulation.

A combination of Isotianil and Trifloxystrobin is also suitable for applications in rice be it as a foliar spray application or in form of a seed treatment.

Preferably, Isotianil or a combination with isotianil can be used for controlling fungal diseases selected from rice blast (e.g., caused by fungus Pyricularia oryzae), sexual morph (e.g. caused by fungus Magnaporthe oryzae (formerly known as Magnaporthe grisea ) and rice bakanae disease (e.g. caused by fungus Gibberella fujikuroi).

Thus in another aspect, the invention also refers to the use of Isotianil or a combination of Isotianil, preferably with Foseltyl-Al or Trifloxystrobin, for controlling a fungus selected from the group consisting of Pyricularia oryzae, Magnaporthe oryzae and Gibberella fujikuroi.

In a further preferred embodiment, a plant or part of a plant in the methods of the invention is treated with a combination comprising Isotianil and at least one further active ingredient selected from Fosetyl-Al, mono- and dibasic sodium, potassium and ammonium phosphites (e.g., Phostrol). Preferably, the fungal disease is selected from the group consisting of Downy mildew, Botrytis bunch rot, Anthracnose, Yellow Sigatoka and Stem rot more preferably Botrytis bunch rot, Anthracnose, Yellow Sigatoka and Stem rot.

In a further preferred embodiment, the ratio between Isotianil and a mono- or dibasic sodium, potassium or ammonium phosphite (e.g., Phostrol) in a combination is from 50:1 to 1:50, more preferably from 10:1 to 1:10 such as from 5:1 to 1:5, from 1:3 to 3:1 or around 1:1.

In a further preferred embodiment, the ratio between Isotianil and Fosetyl-Al in a combination is from 50:1 to 1:50, more preferably from 10:1 to 1:10 such as from 5:1 to 1:5, from 1:3 to 3:1 or around 1:1.

In a further preferred embodiment, the ratio between Isotianil and Trifloxystrobin in a combination is from 50:1 to 1:50, more preferably from 10:1 to 1:2, more preferably from 5:1 to 1:1, such as from 2:1 to 3:1.

Application forms

The treatment according to the invention, especially of grapevine, banana, mango, papaya, pitaya, and avocado plants and plant parts and of the propagation material with Isotianil is carried out directly or by acting on their environment, habitat or store by the customary treatment methods, for example by drip, spraying, atomizing, nebulizing, scattering, painting on, injecting.

In an especially preferred embodiment of the present invention, Isotianil, combinations with Isotianil such as Isotianil and Trifloxystrobin or Fosetyl-Al is used for application for the treatment of vegetative propagation material, such as seeds (seed treatment); or for rhizomes.

In one preferred embodiment, Isotianil or a combination with Isotianil such as Isotianil and Trifloxystrobin or Fosetyl-Al is/are applied as a foliar application. In a further preferred embodiment of the instant invention is the use and the methods cited above, wherein the method of use is by foliar spray application is within the range of from 5 g/ha to 900 g/ha such as 50 g/ha to 800 g/ha, or 250 g /ha to 500 g /ha Isotianil.

In another preferred embodiment, Isotianil or a combination with Isotianil such as Isotianil and Trifloxystrobin or Fosetyl-Al is/are applied as a seed treatment to seeds. In a further preferred embodiment of the instant invention is the use and the methods cited above, wherein the method of use is a seed treatment and the range of Isotianil is within the range of from O.Olg/kg seeds to lOOg/kg seeds, more preferably, in the range of from 0.02 g/kg seeds to 8g/kg seeds such as from 0.02 g/kg seeds to 6 g/kg seeds.

In another preferred embodiment, Isotianil or a combination with Isotianil such as Isotianil and Trifloxystrobin or Fosetyl-Al is/are applied as drip application. Preferably drip application is applied every 30 days, more preferably every 14 days. In a preferred embodiment, drip application is used with 1 to 0.01 g Isotianil even more preferred with 0.8 to 0.01 g Isotianil such as 0.5 to 0.01 g Isotianil or 0.05 to 0.01 g Isotianil.

In case of a combination of Isotianil with Fosetyl-AI drip application is used with 2.5 to 0.5 g Fosetyl- Al/plant and 0.035 to 0.015 g Isotianil/plant, more preferred with 2.0 to 1.0 g Fosetyl-AI/pIant and 0.03 to 0.02 g Isotianil/plant, even more preferred with 2.0 to 1.0 g Fosetyl -A 1/plant and 0.03 to 0.02 g Isotianil/plant, such as with 1.6 g Fosetyl-AI/pIant and 0.024 g Isotianil/plant.

In case of a combination of Isotianil with Trifloxystrobin, drip application is used with 2.5 to 0.5 g Trifloxystrobin/plant and 0.035 to 0.015 g Isotianil/plant, more preferred with 2.0 to 1.0 g Trifloxystrobin /plant and 0.03 to 0.02 g Isotianil/plant, even more preferred with 2.0 to 1.0 g Trifloxystrobin /plant and 0.03 to 0.02 g Isotianil/plant, such as with 1.6 g Trifloxystrobin/plant and 0.024 g Isotianil/plant.

Depending on its respective physical and/or chemical properties, Isotianil can be converted into the customary formulations, such as solutions, emulsions, suspensions, powders, foams, pastes, granules, sachets, aerosols, microencapsulations in polymeric substances, and ULV cold- and hot-fogging formulations.

These formulations are prepared in a known manner, for example by mixing Isotianil with extenders, that is to say liquid solvents, pressurized liquefied gases and/or solid carriers, optionally with the use of surfactants, that is emulsifiers and/or dispersants and/or foam formers. If water is used as the extender, it is possible for example also to use organic solvents as cosolvents. Liquid solvents which are suitable in the main are: aromatics such as xylene, toluene or alkylnaphthalenes, chlorinated aromatics or chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons such as chlorobenzenes, chloroethylenes or methylene chloride, aliphatic hydrocarbons, such as cyclohexane or paraffins, for example mineral oil fractions, alcohols such as butanol or glycol, and their ethers and esters, ketones such as acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, methyl isobutyl ketone or cyclohexanone, strongly polar solvents such as dimethylformamide and dimethyl sulphoxide, and water, and also mineral, animal and vegetable oils such as, for example, palm oil or other plant seed oils. Liquefied gaseous extenders or carriers are understood as meaning those liquids which are gaseous at normal temperature and under normal pressure, for example aerosol propellants such as halohydrocarbons and butane, propane, nitrogen and carbon dioxide. Suitable solid carriers are: for example ground natural minerals such as kaolins, clays, talc, chalk, quartz, attapulgite, montmorillonite or diatomaceous earth, and ground synthetic minerals such as highly disperse silica, alumina and silicates. Suitable solid carriers for granules are: for example crushed and fractionated natural rocks such as calcite, pumice, marble, sepiolite, dolomite, and synthetic granules of inorganic and organic meals, and granules of organic material such as sawdust, coconut shells, maize cobs and tobacco stalks. Emulsifiers and/or foam formers which are suitable are: for example nonionic, cationic and anionic emulsifiers, such as polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene fatty alcohol ethers, for example alkylaryl polyglycol ethers, alkylsulphonates, alkyl sulphates, arylsulphonates, and protein hydrolysates. Suitable dispersants are: for example, lignosulphite waste liquors and methylcellulose.

Adhesives such as carboxymethylcellulose, natural and synthetic polymers in the form of powders, granules or latices, such as gum arabic, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl acetate, and natural phospholipids such as cephalins and lecithins, and synthetic phospholipids, may be used in the formulations. Further additives may be mineral and vegetable oils.

It is possible to use colorants such as inorganic pigments, for example iron oxide, titanium oxide, Prussian Blue, and organic dyestuffs, such as alizarin, azo and metal phthalocyanine dyestuffs, and trace nutrients, such as salts of iron, manganese, boron, copper, cobalt, molybdenum and zinc.

In general, the formulations contain between 5 and 95% by weight of active ingredient, preferably between 10 and 70% by weight of active ingredient, more preferred between 15 and 30% by weight of active ingredient, and most preferred 20% by weight of active ingredient.

The invention also relates to the use of the compositions according to the invention for the treatment of vegetative propagation material for protecting the vegetative propagation material and the germinating plant from microbial and animal pathogens.

One of the advantages of the present invention is that, owing to the special systemic properties of the compositions according to the invention, the treatment of the vegetative propagation material with these compositions protects not only the vegetative propagation material itself, but also the plants which it gives rise to after planting, from microbial and animal pathogens. In this manner, the immediate treatment of the crop at the time of planting, or shortly thereafter, can be dispensed with.

The compounds which can be used in accordance with the invention and which are selected from among compounds according to formula (I) can be converted into the customary formulations, such as solutions, emulsions, suspensions, powders, foams and ULV formulations.

These formulations are prepared in the known manner by mixing the compounds selected from among the compounds of the formula (I) with customary additives, such as, for example, customary extenders and also solvents or diluents, colorants, wetters, dispersants, emulsifiers, antifoams, preservatives, secondary thickeners, adhesives, gibberellins, mineral and vegetable oils, and also water.

Colorants which may be present in the formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention are all colorants which are customary for such purposes. In this context, both pigments, which are sparingly soluble in water, and dyes, which are soluble in water, may be used. Examples which may be mentioned are the colorants known by the names Rhodamin B, C.I. Pigment Red 112 and C.I. Solvent Red 1.

Wetters which may be present in the formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention are all substances which are customary for formulating agrochemical active ingredients and which promote wetting. Alkylnaphthalenesulphonates, such as diisopropyl- or diisobutylnaphthalenesulphonates, may preferably be used.

Suitable dispersants and/or emulsifiers which may be present in the formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention are all nonionic, anionic and cationic dispersants which are conventionally used for the formulation of agrochemical active ingredients. The following may be used by preference: nonionic or anionic dispersants or mixtures of nonionic or anionic dispersants. Suitable nonionic dispersants which may be mentioned are, in particular, ethylene oxide/propylene oxide block polymers, alkylphenol poly glycol ethers and tristyrylphenol polyglycol ethers and their phosphated or sulphated derivatives. Suitable anionic dispersants are, in particular, lignosulphonates, salts of polyacrylic acid, and arylsulphonate/formaldehyde condensates.

Antifoams which may be present in the formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention are all foam-inhibitor substances which are conventionally used for the formulation of agrochemical active ingredients. Silicone antifoams and magnesium stearate may be used by preference.

Preservatives which may be present in the formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention are all substances which can be employed for such purposes in agrochemical compositions. Examples which may be mentioned are dichlorophene and benzyl alcohol hemiformal.

Secondary thickeners which may be present in the formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention are all substances which can be employed for such purposes in agrochemical compositions. Cellulose derivatives, acrylic acid derivatives, xanthan, modified clays and highly disperse silica are preferably suitable.

Adhesives which may be present in the formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention are all customary binders which can be used in mordants. Polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl alcohol and tylose may be mentioned by preference.

Gibberellins which may be present in the formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention are preferably Gibberellin Al, Gibberellin A3 (gibberellic acid), Gibberellin A4, Gibberellin A7. Especially preferred is gibberellic acid.

The gibberellins are known (cf. R. Wegler "Chemie der Pflanzenschutz- und Schadlingsbekampfungsmittel" [Chemistry of plant protection and pesticide agents], volume 2, Springer Verlag, Berlin-Heidelberg-New York, 1970, pages 401 - 412).

Mixtures/combinations

A compound selected from among the compounds according to formula (I) can be employed as such or, in formulations, also in a combination with known fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, soil-improvement products or products for reducing plant stress, for example Myconate, in order to widen the spectrum of action or to prevent the development of resistance, for example. In many cases, this engenders synergistic effects, that is to say the efficacy of the mixture exceeds the efficacy of the individual components.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention refers to a combination of Isotianil with at least one further active ingredient selected from Fosetyl-Al, and mono- and dibasic sodium, potassium and ammonium phosphites (e.g., Phostrol), more preferred Fosetyl-Al. In a preferred embodiment, the combination is Isotianil with Fosetyl-Al and the ratio in wt% from Isotianil to Fosetyl-Al is preferably from 1 :20 to 1 : 100, more preferred from 1:40 to 1:80, even more preferred from 1:60 to 1:70, e.g. in case of foliar applications. In another preferred embodiment, the ratio of such a combination is from 1 : 1700 to 1 : 10 Isotianil to Fosetyl- Al such as from 1:1666 to 1:14 or such as from 1:100 to 1:50, e.g., around 1:67, e.g. in case of drip applications.

In another preferred embodiment, the present invention refers to a combination of Isotianil with Trifloxystrobin. and the ratio in wt% from Isotianil to Trifloxystrobin is preferably from 10: 1 to 1 :2, more preferably from 5:1 to 1:1, such as from 2:1 to 3:1.

In accordance with the invention, the term "mixture" means various combinations of at least two of the abovementioned active ingredients which are possible, such as, for example, ready mixes, tank mixes (which is understood as meaning spray slurries prepared from the formulations of the individual active ingredients by combining and diluting prior to the application) or combinations of these (for example, a binary ready mix of two of the abovementioned active ingredients is made into a tank mix by using a formulation of the third individual substance). According to the invention, the individual active ingredients may also be employed sequentially, i.e. one after the other, at a reasonable interval of a few hours or days, in the case of the treatment of seed for example also by applying a plurality of layers which contain different active ingredients. Preferably, it is immaterial in which order the individual active ingredients can be employed. In one preferred embodiment, however, the active ingredients are applied simultaneously to their target, e.g. the combination is a tank mix or a formulation comprising the active ingredients.

The compounds according to formula (I) can be employed as such, in the form of their formulations or the use forms prepared therefrom, such as ready-to-use solutions, suspensions, wettable powders, pastes, soluble powders, dusts and granules. They are applied in the customary manner, for example by pouring, spraying, atomizing, scattering, dusting, foaming, painting on and the like. It is furthermore possible to apply the compounds according to formula (I) by the ultra-low-volume method or to inject the active ingredient preparation, or the active ingredient itself, into the soil. The vegetative propagation material of the plants may also be treated.

When employing a compound selected from among the compounds according to formula (I), the application rates may be varied within a substantial range, depending on the type of application. In the treatment of plant parts, the application rates of active ingredient are preferably between 0.1 and 10000 g/ha, more preferred between 10 and 1000 g/ha. In the treatment of vegetative propagation material, the application rates of active ingredient are preferably between 0.001 and 50 g per kilogram of vegetative propagation material, more preferred between 0.01 and 10 g per kilogram of vegetative propagation material. In the treatment of the soil, the application rates of active ingredient are preferably between 0.1 and 10000 g/ha, more preferred between 1 and 5000 g/ha.

The examples which follow are intended to illustrate the invention, but without imposing any limitation.

Examples

Means followed by same letter or symbol do not significantly differ (P=.05, Duncan's New MRT or LSD depandant on post hoc analysis used). Mean comparisons performed only when AOV Treatment P(F) is significant at mean comparison OSL. Example 1

Isotianil efficacy against Botrytis cinerea in grapevine

This example illustrates the efficacy of compositions containing Isotianil against Botrytis cinerea in grapevine.

Trial Description: At Nairne, South Australia, in the 2016/17 season Isotianil 200 SC at 50 mL/100 L (10 g ai/100 L) was applied for the control of botrytis ( Botrytis cinerea) in grapevines cv. Viognier. Isotianil was applied at a volume of 1000 L/ha using an ATV mounted petrol-powered hand-held spray gun system (i.e. 100 g Isotianil /ha). Five applications were made over the duration of the trial: at 10% cap fall (A), at 80 % cap fall (B), at pre-bunch closure (C), at veraison (D) and at veraison + 28 days (E) on an average 26.75 day interval. The trial was a randomised complete block design of 3 treatments by four replicates with plot size of 2 m x 7 m (four vines plots). Detailed crop safety assessments were conducted at 14 DAA, 14 DAB, 15 DAC, 14 DAD and 6 DAE (DA[...] = days after respective application). Incidence and severity of botrytis was assessed for 25 bunches of grapes per plot at 28 days after the forth application “D” (DAD) and 6 days after the fifth application “E” (DAE). The following treatments were performed

1) Untreated

2) SCALA 400 SC (Pyrimethanil), 200 ml / 100 L

3) Isotianil 200 SC (50 ml / 100 L) Results

Table 1 Mean botrytis incidence (counts from n = 25 bunches and percent incidence) and severity of

Mean comparisons performed only when ANOVA Treatment F-ratio is significant (p < 0.05) x data arcsine square-root percent transformed to meet the assumptions of ANOVA. Original means

Trial results show that Isotianil at 50 mL/100 L (10 g ai/100 L), applied as foliar spray preventive at 26.75 interval very significantly reduced both, the Botrytis disease incidence (from 49% to 8 % at 6 days after last application) and severity (from 35% to 3% at 6 DAE). In this trial, Isotianil efficacy was superior to the current market standard Scala (Pyrimethanil).

Example 2

Isotianil efficacy against Botrytis cinerea in grapevine

Trial Description: At Ballandean, Queensland, Australia, in the 2016-17 season, Scala 400 SC and Isotianil 200 SC were applied to control Botrytis bunch rot ( Botrytis cinerea) in Sauvignon Blanc wine grapes. All treatments were compared to untreated control grapevines.The trial was set up as a randomised completed block of 8 treatments by four replicates (5 vines per plot). Scala 400 SC was applied at 200 mL/100 L (80 g ai/lOOL) and Isotianil at 50 mL/100 L (10 g ai/100 L) using a backpack mist blower delivering mixtures to the point of run-off. Live applications were made commencing on 16/11/16 when vines were at 10% cap fall, at 80% cap fall, pre bunch closure, veraison and veraison +16 days with an average interval of 21.5 days. The water volume ranged from 909 to 1,354 L/ha throughout the trial (average 1,146 L/ha) delivering between 90.9 to 135.4 g ai/ha of Isotianil dependant on application timing. Grape bunches were assessed whilst on their vines for Botrytis incidence and severity at 33 and 41 Days after application E (DAE).

Trial was laid out with 2 treatments and compared to the untreated.

1, Untreated 2. Scala 400 SC (Pyrimethanil), 200 mL/100 L

3. Isotianil 200 SC (50 mL/100 L)

Results

Botrytis disease incidence was assessed at 33 and 41 days after application E (DAE) Table 2 Mean botrytis incidence of berries at 33 and 41 DAE.

Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different at the 5% level according to least significant difference (LSD) test.

Table 3 Mean botrytis severity of berries at 33 and 41 DAE.

Trial results show that Isotianil at 50 mL per 100 L, applied as foliar spray preventive at 21.5 interval very significantly reduced both, the Botrytis disease incidence (from 95% to 25 % at 41 days after last application) and severity (from 17.6% to 1.6% at 41 days after last application). In this trial, Isotianil efficacy was superior to the current market standard Scala (Pyrimethanil).

Example 3

Isotianil efficacy against anthracnose (Colletotrichum) and stem end rot complex (Dothiorella) in avocado

Trial description: At Childers, Queensland, in the 2016/17 season, Isotianil 200 SC at 25 ml 7100 L (5 g ai/100 L) was compared to the commercial standard Kocide Blue Xtra 350 WG applied at 150 g/100 L (52.5 g ai/100 L) for the control of anthracnose ( Colletotrichum gloeosporioides ) and stem end rot ( Dothiorella spp.) in Shepard avocadoes. A total of 9 spray applications were applied using a Back pack prayer on a spray interval of 6 to 26 days (average 17 days) delivering an average spray water volume of 5 L/tree or 988 L/ha, equating to an average of 49.4 g ai/ha Isotianil applied at each application.

The trial was set up as a randomised completed block of 12 treatments by three replicates (single tree per plot).

At harvest, 20 fruit were randomly selected per tree and placed into commercial avocado trays. The trays of fruit were maintained at ambient temperature and assessed for post-harvest diseases. At 6, 8, 10, 12 and 15 days after harvest individual fruit were assessed for Anthracnose and stem end rot recording the number of fruit infected based on each identifiable pathogen and severity by estimating the percent fruit area with disease. Data was assesed as percentage incidence, percentage severity and percent control (Abbott) for the individual pathogens.

This example illustrates the efficacy of compositions containing Isotianil against anthracnose ( Colletotrichum) and stem end rot complex ( Dothiorella ) in avocado.

The assessments were done various days after harvest (DAH).

The trial, had the following treatments, a) Untreated c) Kocide Blue Xtra (copper), 150 g / 100 L d) Isotianil 200 SC, 25 ml / 100 L Results

Table 4: Mean percentage incidence of anthracnose and % Abbott control on avocado fruit.

Duncan's New MRT). Mean comparisons performed only when AOV Treatment P(F) is significant at mean comparison OSL.

Table 5: Mean percentage severity of anthracnose and % Abbott control on avocado fruit.

DAH - Days after harvest. Means followed by same letter or symbol do not significantly differ (P=.05, Duncan's New MRT). Mean comparisons performed only when AOV Treatment P(F) is significant at mean comparison OSL.

At 12 DAF1, trial results show that Isotianil applied as foliar spray at 25 mL/100 L (49.4 g ai/ha) , significantly reduced the anthracnose incidence and severity in avocado, to 38.3% and 5.9% repectively compared with the untreated control (95% and 27.3% respectively), but similar with a tendence to better than Kocide Blue Xtra. Table 6: Mean percentage incidence of stem end rot on avocado fruit.

Table 7: Mean percentage severity of stem end rot on avocado fruit

At 12 DAH, trial results show that Isotianil applied as foliar spray at 25 mi 71 Of) L (450 g ai/ha), significantly reduced the stem rot severity in avocado, 0.5% compared with the untreated control (1.95%), but was similar to commercial standard, Kocide Blue Xtra (Table 7). Although numererically there was reduced disease incidence at the final assessment, this did not translate to significant differences (Table 6). Example 4

Trial description: In Childers, QLD, in 2016/17 a trial for the control of anthracnose in avocados, cv. Shepard, was conducted. Isotianil at a rate of 25 ml 7100 L (5 g ai/100 L) was applied 10 times, starting at the end of flowering (although a low amount of flowers was still present on most plants) with repeat applications on an interval of between 7 and 30 days. Applications were made on a regular basis to provide constant protection to developing fruit during the production period. The final (10^th) application (J) was 7 days after the 9^th application. Treatments were applied at 728 L/ha using a hand lance attached to backpack sprayer, delivering 36.4 g ai/ha of Isotianil at each application time.. The trail was set up as a randomised block design of 12 treatments by 3 replicates, a single tree represented each plot.

Assessments consisted of twenty fruit from each tree being stored stored in avocado trays at room temperature and assessed regularly, individual fruit were disguarded when the majority of that fruit recorded disease levels of 50% or above. At 2, 10, 14, 18, 21 and 24 Days after application J (DAJ) (which occurred 1 day prior to harvest) fruit were assessed for presence and severity of individual pathogens.

The trial, had the following treatments,

1) Untreated

2) Kocide Blue Xtra (copper), 150 g/100 L

3) Isotianil 200 SC, 25 mL/100 L Table 8: Percent incidence of anthracnose on fruit at 2, 10, 14, 18, 21 and 24 DAJ.

Means followed by same letter or symbol do not significantly differ (P=.05, Duncan's New MRT). Mean comparisons performed only when AOV Treatment P(F) is significant at mean comparison OSL. Table 9: Percent severity as a measure of mean surface area of each fruit covered by anthracnose at 2, 10, 14, 18 , 21 and 24 DAJ.

Means followed by same letter or symbol do not significantly differ (P=.05, Duncan's New MRT). Mean comparisons performed only when AOV Treatment P(F) is significant at mean comparison OSL. Table 10: Percent incidence of stem end rot on fruit 14, 18, 21 and 24 DAJ.

Means followed by same letter or symbol do not significantly differ (P=.05, Duncan's New MRT). Mean comparisons performed only when AOV Treatment P(F) is significant at mean comparison OSL.

Table 11 : Percent severity as a measure of mean surface area of each fruit covered by stem end rot at 14, 18, 21 and 24 DAJ.

A low infection of anthracnose occurred on fruit while on the tree, as such it was decided to conduct the assessment on harvested fruit, thus placing a large amount of disease selection pressure on each treatment. There was a trend toward reduced anthracnose and stem end rot for Isotianil compared to the untreated, this was similar but lower compared to the commercial standard Kocide Blue Xtra. This results indicated that there is activity by Isotianil.

Example 5

Isotianil efficacy against anthracnose (Colletotrichum) and stem end rot complex (Dothiorella) in mango

This example illustrates the efficacy of compositions containing Isotianil against anthracnose ( Colletotrichum) and stem end rot complex ( Dothiorella ) in mango At Bowen, Queensland, Australia, in 2016, the efficacy and safety of Isotianil 200 SC was evaluated for the control of stem end rot ( Dothiorella dominicana ) [SER] and anthracnose ( Colletotrichum gloeosporioides ) in mango cv. R2E2. The trial was set up as a randomised complete block design of 4 replicates of 12 treatments, each plot consisting of a single tree. Isotianil at 25 mL/100 L (5 g ai/100 L) and Dithane Rainshield 750 WG at 200 g/100 L (150 g ai/100 L) were applied on a 4 spray schedule with 7 to 14 day intervals using a backpack sprayer delivering 800 L/ha. A total of 40 g ai/ha of Isotianil was applied at each application time. Treatments were compared to an untreated.

At commercial harvest (4 days after the final application), 14 fruit per tree were randomly sampled and placed in commercial cardboard mango bays. Sampled fruit were maintained at ambient temperature (19.6 to 33.3°C) and were inspected at 3, 7, 10 and 14 days after harvest (DAH) for the presence of post-harvest diseases. A visual estimate of the percentage of fruit surface infected for each disease on individual fruit was recorded. In the trial had the following treatments:

1) Untreated

2) Dithane Rainshield 750 WG (Mancozeb), 200 g/100 L

3) Isotianil 200 SC, 25 mL/100 L

Results Table 12: Mean percentage incidence of anthracnose ( Colletotrichum gloeosporioides ) on mango fruit.

Means followed by same letter or symbol do not significantly differ (P=.05, LSD). Mean comparisons performed only when AOV Treatment P(F) is significant at mean comparison OSL. tA, data transformed using an Arcsine squareroot transformation. NSD means “Not significantly different”. Table 13: Mean percentage severity of anthracnose {Colletotrichum gloeosporioides) on mango fruit

Means followed by same letter or symbol do not significantly differ (P=.05 or . 0, LSD). Mean comparisons performed only when AOV Treatment P(F) is significant at mean comparison OSL. tA, data transformed using an Arcsine squareroot transformation. NSD means “Not significantly different”. At 11 DAH, the trial showed that Isotianil at 25 mL/100 L significantly decreased the incidence and at 11, 14 and 18 DAH the severity of anthracnose when compared to the untreated. Whilst Isotianil provided similar reduction in incidence to Dithane rainshield at the start, it provided a superior reduction in disease severity at the last two assessment timings. Table 14: Mean percentage incidence of stem end rot ( Dothiorella dominicand) on mango fruit.

Means followed by same letter or symbol do not

-.05, LSD). Mean comparisons performed only when AOV Treatment P(F) is significant at mean comparison OSL. tL, data transformed using a Log transformation and tS, data transformed using a square root transformation. NSD, Not significantly different.

Table 15: Mean percentage severity of stem end rot ( Dothiorella dominicana ) on mango fruit.

Means followed by same letter or symbol do not significantly differ (P=.05 or .10, LSD). Mean comparisons performed only when AOV Treatment P(F) is significant at mean comparison OSL. tL, data transformed using a Log transformation and tA, data transformed using an Arcsine squareroot transformation. NSD, Not significantly different.

At 11 DAH, the trial showed that Isotianil at 25 mi 7100 L significantly decreased the incidence and at 11, 14 and 18 DAH the severity of stem end rot when compared to the untreated. Whilst Isotianil provided similar reduction in incidence to Dithane rainshield at the start, it provided significantly superior reduction in disease severity at the last two assessment timings.

Example 6

Isotianil efficacy against Black Spot ( Asperisporium caricae) in papaya

This example illustrates the efficacy of compositions containing Isotianil against Black Spot ( Asperisporium caricae ) in papaya.

At Mareeba, North Queensland, in the 2017 season, Isotianil 200 SC at 250 mL/ha (50 g a.i./ha) was compared to the industry standards Bravo 720 SC at 2 L/ha (1440 g ai/ha chlorothalonil) for the control of black spot caused by Asperisporium caricae in papaya var. Yellow.

Five foliar applications were applied at 18 to 22 day intervals in a spray volume of 150 L/ha using mist blower. The trial design had plots of 15 x 3 metres set out as a randomised complete block design with four replicates.

Detailed assessments were conducted 18-22 days after each application with an additional assessment conducted 37 days after application E (DAE). Assessments included efficacy and crop safety.

The trial had the following treatments: 1) Untreated

2) Bravo at 2 L/ha

3) Isotianil 200 SC, 250 mL/ha

Table 16: Mean percentage yellow papaya black spot incidence at 22 DAD, 20 DAE and 37 DAE.

Means followed by same letter or symbol do not significantly differ (P=.05, LSD)

Mean comparisons performed only when AOV Treatment P(F) is significant at mean comparison OSL. Table 17: Mean disease disease severity index of yellow papaya black spot at 22 DAD, 20 DAE and 37 DAE.

Mean comparisons performed only when AOV Treatment P(F) is significant at mean comparison OSL.

At 22 DAD and 37 DAE, Isotianil at 250 mL/ha gave significant control of black spot incidence when compared to the untreated (Table 16). At all assessment times Isotianil significantly reduced the black spot disease severity index below the untreated (Table 17). Control was similar to the commercial standard Bravo.

Example 7

Isotianil efficacy against Black Spot ( Asperisporium caricae) in papaya

At Mareeba, Queensland in the 2018, growing season Isotianil 200 SC applied at 250 and 500 mL/ha (50 and 100 g ai/ha) was compared with the standard Barrack 720 CS at 2 L/ha (1440 g ai/ha chlorothalonil) for the control of black spot (Asperisporium caricae) in papaya cv. Red.

A total of four foliar applications were applied at 18-33 day intervals in a spray volume of 436 L/ha. The trial design was a randomised complete block design with four replicates and a plot size of 5 trees.

A low incidence of black spot was observed prior to trial commencement. The pressure remained steady in the untreated papaya throughout the trial until the final assessment where the dry conditions and temperatures cooling at the conclusion of the trial meant that disease levels did not increase following the final application of treatments. Coupled with this result was a significant leaf drop of infected leaves, the disease infection level in the untreated trees was significantly reduced at the final assessment. Similar leaf drop was not observed in the treated plots at this time. Fruit set was later than expected due to these conditions and hence no fruit assessments were conducted. The trial had the following treatments:

1) Untreated

2) Isotianil 200 SC, 250 mL/ha

3) Isotianil 200 SC, 500 mL/ha 4) Barrack at 2000 L/ha

Table 18: Mean percentage yellow papaya black spot incidence and severity at 33 DAC.

Means within the same column with a letter in common are not significantly different (P>0.05)

At 33 DAC, no significant differences were recorded for disease incidence by Isotianil at both rates and Barrack when compared to the untreated. Isotianil at 500 mL/ha significantly deceased disease severity when compared to the untreated and Barrack. A numerical rate response was evident for both incidence and severity at 33 DAC.

Example 8

Isotianil efficacy against downy mildew ( Plasmopara viticold) in grapevines

This example illustrates the efficacy of compositions containing Isotianil against downy mildew ( Plasmopara viticold) in grapevines.

At Herne Hill, Western Australia, in 2019, Isotianil was applied at 50 ml 7100 L (10 g ai/100 L) to grapevines cv. Red Globe at early fruit set and 7 days later to control downy mildew. Isotianil was compared to an untreated and Luna Experience at 37.5 mL/100 L (15 g ai/100 L fluopyram and 15 g ai/100 L tebuconazole) plus Revus at 60 mL/100 L (15 g ai/100 L mandipropamid). Treatments were applied in water volumes of 1500 and 1300 L/ha, delivering 150 and 130 g ai/ha of Isotianil respectively. The trial was fully randomised with 4 replicates, with each plot consisting of one grapevine At 24 days after application B (DAB), 20 randomly selected leaves per plot were assessed and the presence or absence of downy mildew on each leaf recorded. At the same time the leaf area infected with downy mildew was also estimated.

The trial had the following treatments: 1) Untreated

2) Luna Experience at 37.5 mL/100 L plus Revus at 60 mL/100 L

3) Istianil 200 SC, 50 mL/100 L

Table 19: Mean percentage yellow papaya black spot incidence and severity at 33 DAC.

Means followed by same letter or symbol do not significantly differ (P=.05, Student-Newman-Keuls). Mean comparisons performed only when AOV Treatment P(F) is significant at mean comparison OSL.

Isotianil at 24 DAB provided significant control of downy mildew incidence when compared to the untreated. Although there was no significant difference in severity, Isotianil numerically reduced severity compared to the untreated. Isotianil recorded similar control to the commercial standard .

Claims

Claims:

1. Use of Isotianil (formula (I))

for controlling a disease caused by a fungus in grapevines, banana, mango, papaya, pitaya, and avocado, wherein the fungal disease is selected from the group consisting of Botrytis bunch rot, Downy mildew, Anthracnose, Yellow Sigatoka and Stem rot, more preferably Botrytis bunch rot, Anthracnose, Yellow Sigatoka and Stem rot.

2. Use of Isotianil for controlling a fungus causing a disease is selected from the group consisting of Botrytis cinerea, Plasmopara viticola, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Mycosphaerella musicola, Dothiorella dominicana, Phomopsis spp., Botryodiplodia theobromae and Lasiodiplodia theobromae..

3. Use of Isotianil according to claim 1 or 2 for controlling Botrytis cinerea.

4. Use of Isotianil according to claim 1 or 2 for controlling Plasmopara viticola.

5. Use of Isotianil according to claim 1 or 2 for controlling Colletotrichum gloeosporioides.

6. Use of Isotianil according to claim 1 or 2 for controlling Mycosphaerella musicola.

7. Use of Isotianil according to claim 1 or 2 for controlling a fungus selected from the group consisting of Dothiorella dominicana, Phomopsis spp., Botryodiplodia theobromae and Lasiodiplodia theobromae.

8 A method for controlling fungal diseases comprising the step of treating a plant or part of a plant, preferably, wherein the plant or part of a plant is a plant or part of a plant of a fruit crop, more preferably selected from the group consisting of grapevines and tropical fruits even more preferably from the group consisting of grapevine, banana, mango, papaya, pitaya, and avocado, with Isotianil or a combination of Isotianil and one or more further active ingredients selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, or products for reducing plant stress.

9 A method for controlling a fungus selected from the group consisting of Botrytis cinerea,

Plasmopara viticola, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Mycosphaerella musicola, Dothiorella dominicana, Phomopsis spp., Botryodiplodia theobromae and Lasiodiplodia theobromae comprising the step of treating a plant or part of a plant, preferably, wherein the plant or part of a plant is a plant or part of a plant of a fruit crop, more preferably selected from the group consisting of grapevines and tropical fruits even more preferably from the group consisting of grapevine, banana, mango, papaya, pitaya, and avocado, with Isotianil or a combination of Isotianil and one or more further active ingredients selected from fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, insecticides, safeners, host defence inducers, or products for reducing plant stress.

10. The method according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein a further active ingredient is selected from the group consisting of Fosetyl-Al; mono- or dibasic sodium or potassium or ammonium phosphites; Trifloxystrobin.

11. The method according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein a further active ingredient is Fosetyl-Al.

12. The method according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein a further active ingredient is Trifloxystrobin.

13. A combination comprising Isotianil and Fosetyl-AI.

14. A combination comprising Isotianil and Trifloxystrobin.

15. The combination according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the combination is part of a formulation.