10106333A top-down approach to bio-repellent discovery for crop protectionClosedLaunchpadInnovate UKBugBiome is harnessing the microbiome to create novel pest repellents. The project applies BugBiomes core platform combining microbiology, entomology and bioinformatics in a field setting. The primary goal is to develop ground-breaking bio-repellents to protect crops from insect pests. Our approach is fundamentally inspired by nature. By closely observing and understanding natural microbial communities, BugBiome is set to revolutionise the way we approach insect repellent development. The project involves isolating microbes and characterising the unique odour profiles to select for novel repellents. The anticipated outcome of this project is the introduction of novel bio-repellents specifically designed to protect crops. These repellents are expected to be a significant advancement in agricultural productivity, offering a solution that does not compromise insect biodiversity. By harnessing the power of microbes in a targeted and sustainable manner, BugBiome aims to set a new standard in crop protection -- one that aligns with the needs of modern agriculture while remaining steadfastly committed to ecological balance and biodiversity conservation. This project promises to be a significant step forward in sustainable agriculture, offering a practical solution to a longstanding challenge faced by farmers worldwide who lack novel methods to protect from pests.