By Jamie Martin
FMC Corporation has reached a milestone in crop protection as the Herbicide Resistance Action Committee (HRAC) classified rimisoxafen as the first herbicide with a dual mode of action. This recognition is considered a major step forward in addressing the growing global issue of herbicide resistant weeds.
The new herbicide works by attacking two separate biological pathways in weeds. It inhibits both phytoene desaturase and solanesyl diphosphate synthase, which are essential for weed survival. By combining two mechanisms in one product, rimisoxafen makes it more difficult for weeds to adapt and develop resistance over time.
Weed resistance continues to challenge farmers. Species such as palmer amaranth and waterhemp have developed resistance to several herbicide groups, reducing the effectiveness of many traditional products. Studies highlighted by FMC show that rimisoxafen offers strong control of these troublesome weeds, giving growers a valuable new option.
The product is designed for use in major broadacre crops including corn, soybeans, cereals, pulses, and sunflowers. Effective weed control in these crops is essential for protecting yields, improving efficiency, and supporting farm profitability.
"HRAC's historic classification of rimisoxafen validates the breakthrough nature of this technology," said Seva Rostovtsev, executive vice president and chief technology officer. "Studies show this molecule delivers control of palmer amaranth and waterhemp, giving farmers an effective solution against weeds that have become resistant to multiple herbicide classes. This is the kind of innovation growers need to protect their crops and their livelihoods."
Rimisoxafen was discovered by FMC researchers at the Stine Research Center and represents another innovation in the company’s crop protection pipeline. It follows the development of other new herbicide actives introduced by FMC in recent years.
The company plans to begin submitting regulatory dossiers in key global markets starting in 2026. This process will help bring the technology closer to farmers and expand available tools for resistance management.
In summary, the dual mode of action classification reflects a new direction in herbicide development. It demonstrates how scientific innovation can support sustainable agriculture by helping farmers manage resistant weeds and maintain strong crop production for the future.
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Categories: National