In the rapidly evolving world of agricultural biologicals, innovation is at the forefront, particularly as companies seek to address the pressing challenges posed by bacterial pathogens. While many startups are focusing on biofungicides and bioinsecticides, the Israeli startup BioArmix is carving out a niche with a groundbreaking approach to combating bacterial threats to crops. Founded in 2023 as a spin-off from Hebrew University, BioArmix is initiating field trials that leverage naturally occurring, non-GMO “predatory” bacteria to target gram-negative bacterial pathogens that jeopardize crops such as potatoes, sugar beets, apples, and cassava.
Co-founder and CEO Dr. Tzvi Zvirin emphasizes the uniqueness of their approach, noting that while predatory bacteria have been studied in human medicine—especially for antibiotic-resistant infections and biofilm control—this strategy is novel in agriculture. “It’s a well-studied bacterial family with different strains that’s historically been more studied in the field of human medicine,” Zvirin explained. “We are the only ones we know of developing products using predatory bacteria in agriculture.”
Predatory bacteria operate on a different principle than traditional antibiotics. Instead of simply inhibiting bacterial growth, these microorganisms actively hunt and consume harmful bacteria, leaving beneficial ones unharmed. This predatory mechanism significantly reduces the likelihood of resistance developing, a major hurdle with conventional antibiotics. Zvirin elaborated on the effectiveness of this approach, stating, “When the bacteria attacking crops are eradicated, our bacteria will eat themselves and die. They attach to the cell wall of pathogens, penetrate inside, and consume them from within, multiplying as they do so.”
One of the standout features of BioArmix’s product is its extended shelf life. By encapsulating the predatory bacteria in carrageenan-trehalose-based formulations, the product can be stored at room temperature as a dry powder for up to two years, making it highly practical for farmers. Once rehydrated, the bacteria are activated and ready to combat pathogens, offering flexibility in application methods, whether through seed coatings, irrigation water, or post-harvest treatments.
BioArmix is focusing its initial efforts on the encapsulated predatory strain Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus to address soft rot caused by Pectobacteriaceae, a group of gram-negative phytopathogens notorious for infecting a variety of plant species, particularly potatoes. Early results from controlled environments have shown promise, and large-scale field trials in Israel are now underway. Zvirin noted that while the primary focus is on soft rot in potatoes, the technology has potential applications in aquaculture and biofilm removal.
The challenge of bacterial pathogens in agriculture is significant, particularly as regulatory pressures mount against traditional solutions like antibiotics and copper-based pesticides. Zvirin pointed out that the industry is facing a shortage of effective treatments, stating, “There are moves to phase out antibiotics and copper-based pesticides, leaving almost no solutions. Farmers are left with good agricultural practices and hoping their losses won’t be too severe.” This gap in the market presents an opportunity for BioArmix, which aims to fill the void with its innovative biologicals.
As BioArmix prepares for market entry, scalability is a key consideration. Zvirin shared that the company is developing a streamlined fermentation process that allows for the simultaneous growth of both the predatory and prey bacteria, significantly reducing time and costs. The goal is to maximize efficiency while ensuring farmers see a substantial return on their investment, potentially saving up to half of the crops that would typically be lost to bacterial infections.
Looking ahead, BioArmix is actively seeking strategic partnerships with established companies in the agricultural sector to facilitate product adoption. The startup is also exploring funding opportunities, buoyed by investor interest in a market where solutions for bacterial pathogens are scarce. As the agricultural landscape continues to shift towards more sustainable practices, BioArmix’s innovative approach to harnessing predatory bacteria could represent a significant advancement in crop protection, potentially reshaping how farmers combat bacterial threats in the field.