Pharmagrow, Inc., is developing an environmentally-friendly nematicide to control microscopic worms that attack annual and perennial crops throughout the world. Headed up by a former researcher as Rohm and Haas (a specialty materials company) the primary focus is to nematology -the study of nematodes, microscopic roundworms that are often parasites of insects, plants, or animals. Plant-parasitic nematodes that cause significant dollar loss in crop value (particularly vegetable crops) have historically been controlled with nematicides. But most nematicides 1) have already been banned, 2) are being phased out as early as 2005, or 3) are under close scrutiny all based on toxicological reasons. Fumigant nematicides in particular have already been proven to deplete the ozone layer. As a result, the development of an environmentally sound nematicide is in high-demand worldwide . The firm is collaborating with researchers from Rutgers Universityâs Entomology Department and the University of Floridaâs Nematology Departme
