US EPA approves new formulation of MBI’s Zequanox

Marrone Bio Innovations Inc. (MBI), a leading global provider of natural products for the agricultural and water treatment markets, announced that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has approved a dry formulation of Zequanox™ (registration number 84059-15), a biological product for controlling invasive mussels within enclosed systems and infrastructures. Zequanox (Pseudomonas fluorescens CL 145A) is the first biopesticide available for controlling invasive zebra and quagga mussels, which are crippling industrial and commercial operations by restricting water flow in heat exchangers, condensers, fire suppression systems, and service and cooling water systems as well as by damaging other infrastructure and equipment.

With Zequanox, 80 percent efficacy in controlling adult mussels and 90 percent in juveniles was demonstrated in multiple trials conducted throughout North America.

Zequanox is composed of dead cells from a naturally-occurring microbe found in soil and water bodies. This microbe has been proven to be lethal to zebra and quagga mussels (Dreissena species) without harming humans, infrastructure, non-target species, or the environment.

As a biological solution, the product has significant benefits over current chemical treatments, which can be toxic to humans, harmful to beneficial species and pollute waterways. Zequanox has minimal use restrictions, does not require detoxification before water discharge, and is noncorrosive to equipment. Trials indicate that it is easier to use, less labor intensive, and requires shorter treatment time than chlorine.

Zequanox can be used as an alternative or as a complement to chemical treatments. Similar to many chemicals, Zequanox is applied directly into the water system using standard injection equipment. This application enables treatment of even the smallest of crevices where mussels may colonize -- a clear advantage over filtration or UV light methods which only offer control at a fixed location in the system.

Added benefits of Zequanox over these mechanical-based methods include the fact that mussel control is not vulnerable to equipment failure and a Zequanox treatment program can be implemented without significant capital expense or installation of specialized equipment.

"Zequanox provides an effective and environmentally-responsible method of controlling invasive mussels without incurring the risks commonly associated with harsh chemicals or the additional operating costs of mechanical solutions," said MBI Director of Water Technologies, Sarahann M. Rackl, Ph.D. "We are pleased the EPA has approved this dry formulation, giving facility operators a new weapon in their fight to control invasive mussels."