Big difference in efficacy between a lick of active (coated slug bait) and bait with active that goes to the core Like Metarex Inov.
Market-leading slug bait Metarex Inov - more active
There’s a big difference in efficacy between a lick of active (coated slug bait) and bait with active that goes to the core.
That’s according to Ash Pace, UPL NZ Ltd. Regional Manager, Central South Island who says Metarex Inov is a whole different ball game compared with coated bait. “With Metarex Inov, the potent, fast-acting active (Metaldehyde) isn’t just a ‘shop front’, it doesn’t skimp or cut corners. “Coated baits only have the active on the outside. The gap between the two kinds of bait is huge: 40 grams of active per kg for Metarex Inov, compared with just 18 grams for coated granules.”
He says that also means savings for growers and farmers by enabling effective cover in fewer passes, using less fuel, and saving on labour. “With Metarex Inov the application rate is 3-5 kg/ha. With coated bait, it’s 10-15 kg/ha. That’s a lot of extra refills. If you can get things done more effectively and in less time on your property, that’s one more job you can tick off.”
Consistency delivers
Ash says Metarex Inov has a consistent shape, and excellent ballistic properties, so spread is consistent and measurable. “Coated bait is irregular in shape. And so, potentially, is the spread.”
In terms of the threat of slugs, Ash likens the unseen risk to the Titanic. ”You may see a bit of slug damage, or even a single slug, but that’s just the tip of your slug iceberg. When you’re sleeping, that’s when slugs shift into high gear.”
Slugs are a major pest in brassicas, maize, cereals, forage crops and pasture in New Zealand with the potential to cost the economy millions of dollars. “No-one can afford to have a spring or autumn sowing fail. Slugs’ ability to cause serious crop damage and failure – is just a fraction behind grass grub.
“Slugs are active year-round though population pressure and damage typically peaks in autumn and spring. The persistence of their life cycle makes them a constant threat, even if conditions are a bit drier – they’ll be back.”
There’s also modern cultivation to consider. Ash says this has moved the goal posts in favour of slugs. “Less invasive soil tilling practices have had the unintended consequence of cutting slugs a break. While cultivation was never a silver bullet for control, strip tillage and direct drilling create environments that encourage slugs to flourish. There’s more ‘trash’” and more places for slugs to hide.
Critical protection from the get go
“Metarex Inov gives you critical protection, especially when you’ve got seedlings coming out of the ground, and you’re looking to get them off to the best start.” Ash says Metarex Inov is super-attractive to slugs, and its palatability is a potent weapon. “Research has shown that slugs will actively choose to feed on Metarex Inov over seedlings.”
Colzactive technology is responsible for the palatability. Created by the research and development team from French company De Sangosse, global leaders in slug and snail bait technology, Colzactive comprises specially selected oil seed rape extracts. The De Sangosse R&D team evaluated 20 different plant species, identifying 50 potential molecules for their attractiveness to slugs, and ultimately selecting two molecules slugs found irresistible.
Metarex Inov is manufactured with the finest durum wheat using a unique wet manufacturing process. An all-weather bait, it is very rainfast, so it continues to perform in the damp conditions that the slugs thrive in without deterioration. Particularly for Mid-Canterbury systems which rely on irrigation, it’s ideal.
Ironmax Pro is another string to UPL’s slug-protection bow. It’s for those who choose a sustainable path, with all the benefits of Metarex Inov, and is safer around stock, companion animals, and farm dogs.
