FMC is set to introduce two innovative herbicides, Keenali Complete and Keenali GR, powered by a new active ingredient called Dodylex. These products are scheduled for release in 2027 and 2028, respectively, marking the first significant advancement in herbicide technology in nearly four decades. This breakthrough offers rice farmers an effective solution against resistant weeds like barnyardgrass, which has evolved resistance to multiple herbicides over the years.

Pioneering Weed Management with Dodylex Active

The introduction of Dodylex Active represents a monumental shift in agricultural chemistry. As a Group 28 herbicide, it targets the DHODH enzyme in the primidine biosynthesis pathway, halting weed germination and growth. This novel mechanism provides robust control over problematic grasses such as barnyardgrass, large crabgrass, signalgrass, and sprangletop species. The last major herbicide innovation occurred over 35 years ago, making this development particularly noteworthy.

Dodylex Active's unique action inhibits the DHODH enzyme, disrupting the primidine biosynthesis pathway essential for weed survival. By preventing germination and tissue growth, it offers preemergence residual control, crucial for managing resistant weeds. Barnyardgrass, a persistent issue in rice cultivation, has developed resistance to five different herbicide modes of action. Dodylex Active excels in controlling these resilient weeds, offering farmers a powerful tool to protect their crops.

Enhanced Efficacy with Keenali Complete and Keenali GR

Keenali Complete combines Dodylex Active with Command 3ME microencapsulated herbicide, providing comprehensive weed control and extended residual activity. This co-pack formulation enhances the effectiveness of both active ingredients, delaying resistance development and ensuring crop safety across various rice production methods. The product is tailored for direct-seeded and water-seeded rice, minimizing off-target movement risks.

Keenali GR, slated for release in 2028, will be a standalone preemergence herbicide specifically designed for the California rice market. It targets barnyardgrass, late watergrass, and sprangletop, addressing regional weed challenges. FMC recommends using Keenali GR in conjunction with other effective herbicides to maximize its benefits. While primarily focused on rice, the potential applications of Dodylex Active extend to other crops facing similar weed resistance issues, including corn, soybeans, and cotton.