MOLLUSCICIDAL COMPOSITIONS

The invention discloses moUuscicidal compositions for controlling snails and slugs, in particular aquatic snails and slugs in fish ponds, paddy fields and similar, by slowly releasing the molluscicide.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Aquatic snails and slugs, i.e. snails and slugs which live in the water, are important pests in particular in ponds for the culture of (phytophagous) fish or else in flooded crops (for example paddy fields) . They cause yield losses by depriving the fish of some of their food, or by damaging or destroying the crop plants. Since population densities of a few thousand snails and slugs per m ² are not unheard of under practical conditions, it is easy to imagine that they cause considerably damage. WO 2012/131302 Al discloses fusion proteins based on peptide toxins as pesticides, in particular a fusion protein comprising: (i) a omega-ACTX-Hvla protein toxin, or a fragment or variant thereof, linked to (ii) a protein capable of mediating translocation of the fusion protein from the invertebrate gut, preferably snowdrop lectin Galanthus nivalis agglutinin GNA.

The current state of the art moUuscicidal composition J-LON-5, which is available on the market, rapidly releases the total amount of incorporated active ingredient, which gives rise to fast decomposition by microbials and to washout of the active ingredient from the target area by currents and other environmental influences.

There was a need for compositions which make an active ingredient against snails and slugs in water available for as long time as possible.

The compositions of instant invention in comparison the state of the art moUuscicidal composition show a constant slow release of the active ingredient. Thus these new

compositions are able to

1. offer crop protection with a single application over the whole relevant growing period;

2. reduce the maximum concentration of active ingredient in the water and thereby minimize environmental impact and loss of active ingredient; 3. reduce the overall amount of active ingredient needed to be applied for crop protection.

The following abbreviations, names and meanings are used, if not stated otherwise:

Ex example

iron(III) phosphate FeP0 ₄

iron(III) pyrophosphate Fe ₄ (P ₂ 07)3

MW molecular weight

PAA Polyacrylamide

PVA Polyvinyl alcohol

% wt%, if not otherwise stated

>= / => equal or greater

<= / =< equal or less

The term ingredient and component is used interchangeably, if not otherwise stated. Especially in the tables the following meanings are used, if not otherwise stated:

CO compositions

ADD Additive

AI Active Ingredient

BA Bulking Agent

DI Disintegrant

FA920 FA 920 SH

FePP Ferric pyrophosphate, iron(III) pyrophosphate, Fe ₄ (P ₂ 07)3

FO4490 FO 4490 SH

LS Limestone

Meta Metaldehyde

MC Methyl cellulose;

MgSt Mg-stearate

NA Nicotinamide, Niacinamide

NaBI NaHC0 ₃

Nicl Niclosamide

NiclEt Niclosamide ethanolamine salt

SP Sodium propionate

WA Wetting Agent

W Water SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Subject of the invention is a molluscicidal composition comprising as components

an active ingredient and

a disintegrant;

wherein

the active ingredient is selected from the group consisting of metaldehyde, iron(III) phosphate, iron(III) pyrophosphate, saponin, niclosamide, niclosamide ethanolamine salt, methiocarb, a fusion protein FUSP, and mixtures thereof; the disintegrant is selected from the group consisting of acrylamide based polymer, methyl cellulose, waxes based on polyethylene glycol or polypropylene glycol as alcohol component, sodium salt of polymerized alkyl naphthalene sulfonic acid, and mixtures thereof;

FSUP comprises: (i) an omega-ACTX-Hvla protein toxin, or a fragment or variant thereof, linked to (ii) a protein capable of mediating translocation of FUSP from an invertebrate gut.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Molluscicidal composition in the sense of the invention means a composition that harms,

preferably kills mollusks. MoUusks in the sense of the invention are preferably snails and slugs.

The active ingredient is a molluscicide, that is a substance active against mollusks, preferably against snails and slugs.

Methiocarb is 3,5-Dimethyl-4-(methylthio)phenyl methylcarbamate with CAS 2032-65-7.

The omega-ACTX-Hvla protein toxin is known in the art. It is a toxin isolated from the

funnel- web spider Hadroncyhe versuta. The terms "omega-ACTX-Hvla protein toxin", "omega-ACTX-Hvla toxin", "omega-ACTX-Hvla protein" and "omega-ACTX-Hvla" are used interchangeably herein, if not otherwise stated.

The amino acid sequence of omega-ACTX-Hvla is SEQ ID NO: 1 : SPTCIPSGQPCPYNENCCSQSCTFKENENGNTVK CD SEQ ID NO: l

A modified form of omega-ACTX-Hvla has a K34 alteration, using the amino acid numbering of SEQ ID NO: l; preferably, the amino acid K34 of omega-ACTX-Hvla is substituted. By "substituted" it is meant that the Lysine amino acid residue at the position 34 is replaced with another amino acid; preferably the ³⁴ Lys is substituted for Glutamine (this is called herein K34Q substitution according to the numbering of SEQ ID NO: 1). The amino acid sequence of the K34Q modified omega-ACTX-Hvla is SEQ ID NO:2: SPTCIPSGQPCPYNENCCSQSCTFKENENGNTVQRCD SEQ ID NO:2

Preferably, the amino acid K34 of omega-ACTX-Hvla protein toxin is modified.

Preferably, the omega-ACTX-Hvla protein toxin has a K34Q substitution.

Preferably, the omega-ACTX-Hvla protein toxin comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ

ID NO: l or of SEQ ID NO:2;

more preferably, the peptide toxin to be used in FUSP has the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID

NO: l or of SEQ ID NO:2.

"Fragment or variant" of omega-ACTX-Hvla includes that FUSP can comprise an amino acid sequence of omega-ACTX-Hvla that can vary from the sequence provided in SEQ ID NO: 1 or SEQ ID NO:2 with the proviso that the fragment or variant substantially retain the biological activity of the omega-ACTX-Hvla.

"Variants" of a polypeptide include insertions, deletions and substitutions, either conservative or non-conservative. This also includes where the peptide sequence omits several amino acids; preferably less than 5, 4, or 3 amino acids are deleted from the sequence provided in SEQ ID NO: l or SEQ ID NO:2. In particular variants of the polypeptide are included where such changes do not substantially alter the omega-ACTX-Hvla toxin activity. A skilled person knows that the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1 or SEQ ID NO:2 can be altered without the loss of biological activity. In particular, single like for like changes with respect to the physio-chemical properties of the respective amino acid should not disturb the functionality, and moreover small deletions within non- functional regions of the toxin peptide can also be tolerated and hence are considered "variants" for the purpose of the present invention.

By "conservative substitutions" is intended combinations such as Gly, Ala; Val, He, Leu; Asp, Glu; Asn, Gin; Ser, Thr; Lys, Arg; and Phe, Tyr.

It is particularly preferred if the variant has an amino acid sequence which has at least 75%, yet still more preferably at least 80%, in further preference at least 85%, in still further preference at least 90% and most preferably at least 95% or 97% identity with the amino acid sequence of the omega-ACTX-Hvla toxin provided herein.

The percent sequence identity between two polypeptides may be determined using suitable computer programs, for example the GAP program of the University of Wisconsin

Genetic Computing Group and it will be appreciated that percent identity is calculated in relation to polypeptides whose sequence has been aligned optimally.

There are also naturally occurring homologues to the omega-ACTX-Hvla peptide toxin which can also be used. Such homologues are considered to be "variants" as defined above. Hadroncyhe versuta also produces the toxins omega-hexatoxin-Hvle, omega- hexatoxin-Hvlc, omega- hexatoxin-Hv Id, and omega-hexatoxin-Hvlb which each have a very high level of sequence identity (only a few amino acid substitutions or deletions). The Sydney funnel- web spider (Atrax robustus) produces the peptide toxin omega-hexatoxin-Arld which has an identical amino acid sequence to omega-ACTX-Hvla, and omega- hexatoxin-Arlh and omegahexatoxin-Arlf which have a very high level of sequence identity (only a few amino acid substitutions or deletions).

Further peptide toxins are produced by the Toowoomba funnel- web spider, Hadronyche

infensa (omega-hexatoxin-Hilb lO, 8, 5, 2, 1 series; omega- hexatoxin-Hild; omega- hexatoxin-Hile; omega-hexatoxin-Hilf) and the Tasmanian funnel- web spider,

Hadronyche venenata (omega-hexatoxin-Hvnlb_6, _ 4, _3, _2, _1 series) and the

Northern tree-dwelling funnel- web spider Hadronyche formidabilis (omega-hexatoxin- Hfla). The peptide toxins listed above have only a few amino acid substitutions or deletions to the amino acid sequence for the omega-ACTX-Hvla peptide toxin of SEQ ID NO: l or SEQ ID NO:2. Therefore each of these peptides toxins are considered to be homologous peptides to the omega- ACTX-Hvl a peptide toxin of SEQ ID NO: 1 or SEQ

ID NO:2 and hence can be used in FUSP, and are embodiments of the invention.

Further information concerning homologous peptide toxins may be found in the GenBank database. The ArachnoServer database is also very helpful (www.arachnoserver.org) as it includes information regarding a large number of spider toxins, arranged by toxin type and species. From the information provided in the databases above and by using the well- known BLAST search, the skilled person can readily identify additional peptide toxins that can be used.

Preferably, the first and second portions (i) and (ii) of FUSP are linked together by genetic or biochemical means and so, in the first instance, by at least one linking amino acid residue or peptide or, in the second instance, by a covalent or non-covalent bond or bonds or other linking moiety. Where a peptide is used to link said members together the number of amino acid residues in the peptide is variable, and is determined by the distance between the relevant ends of each member necessary to allow FUSP to be in a biologically active conformation. The portions of FUSP may be reversibly linked by means adapted to dissociate and release the toxic agent in situ in an invertebrate gut or circulatory system, for example on being metabolised by an invertebrate animal or may be irreversibly linked, depending on the form of the toxic agent.

The second portion of FUSP aids passage of the toxic member through the invertebrate gut, this allowing the protein to move to a site of toxicity in the invertebrate animal. The second portion can be considered as a translocating moiety that is capable of acting as a carrier to translocate the first portion across the gut wall of an invertebrate animal. Thus, FUSP can be used as a pesticide by delivering a toxin to a site of toxicity in an

invertebrate pest animal.

The protein capable of mediating translocation of FUSP from the invertebrate gut preferably mediates the translocation of FUSP from the invertebrate gut to the circulatory system of an invertebrate animal, preferably of insects, molluscs and nematodes, more preferably of moluscs.

Suitable proteins capable of mediating translocation of FUSP from the invertebrate gut include plant lectins.

Generally any lectin that binds to invertebrate gut can be used.

Preferably, the protein capable of mediating translocation of FUSP from the invertebrate gut is a plant lectin selected from any one or more of the following: snowdrop lectin Galanthus nivalis agglutinin (GNA), garlic lectin Allium sativum, pea lectin Pisum sativum (P-lec), peanut lectin Arachis hypogaea, french bean lectin (PHA, Phytohaemoglutinin), or fragments, variants or derivatives thereof.

"Fragment or variant" of the plant lectin includes that the amino acid sequence of the

particular lectin protein can differ from that known in the art and that naturally occurring, with the proviso that the fragment or variant substantially retain the biological activity of the lectin, i.e. be capable of mediating translocation of FUSP from the invertebrate gut.

Preferably, the lectin is GNA.

In example for the amino acid sequence of GNA is SEQ ID NO:3:

DNILYSGETLSTGEFLNYGSFVFIMQEDCNLVLYDVDKPIWATNTGGLSRSCFLSMQ T DGNLVVYNPSNKPIWASNTGGQNGNYVCILQKDRNVVIYGTDRWATG

Preferably, the GNA comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3. Preferably, FUSP further comprises an affinity tag to aid purification. The use of short amino acid tag sequences to aid the affinity purification of recombinant

proteins is well known in the art. Indeed, many commercially available protein expression constructs include nucleic acid sequences encoding such tags. The protein of interest is inserted into the expression construct in such a manner that the affinity tag is linked to said protein. A variety of different affinity tags are known in the art, including chitin binding protein (CBP), maltose binding protein (MBP), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), and the His-tag.

A polyhistidine-tag is an amino acid motif in proteins that consists of at least five histidine (His) residues, often at the N- or C-terminus of the protein. It is also known as hexa histidine-tag, 6xHis-tag, and by the trademarked name His-tag®. They are a well known affinity tag and methods of introducing His-tags to recombinant proteins are known in art, as are routine methods of purifying proteins with His-tags.

Preferably, the affinity tag is a His tag. In one embodiment, the second portion, which is preferably GNA, is located at the N-terminus of the omega-ACTX-Hvla protein toxin. Hence such a FUSP has the arrangement: NH ₂ - (GNA: omega- ACTX-Hvla)-COOH, such as the peptide with SEQ ID NO: 4:

DNILYSGETLSTGEFLNYGSFVFIMQEDCNLVLYDVDKPIWATNTGGLSRSCFLSMQ T DGNLVVYNPSNKPIWASNTGGQNGNYVCILQKDRNVVIYGTDRWATGAAASPTCIPS GQPCP YNENCC S Q S CTFKENENGNT VKRCD VDHHHHHH SEQ ID NO:4

The peptide of SEQ ID NO:4 has a six amino acid HIS tag placed at the C-terminus. The HIS tag can be used to aid recovery of FUSP when prepared as part of a recombinant protein expression system. However, the presence of the HIS tag is optional and therefore a variant of SEQ ID NO:4 can include that peptide sequence without the HIS tag.

In another embodiment, FUSP is NH ₂ -(GNA: MODIFIED omega- ACTX-Hvla)-COOH with SEQ ID NO:5:

HHHHHHDNILYSGETLSTGEFLNYGSFVFIMQEDCNLVLYDVDKPIWATNTGGLSRS C FLSMQTDGNLVVYNPSNKPIWASNTGGQNGNYVCILQKDRNVVIYGTDRWATGAAA SPTCIPSGQPCPYNENCCSQSCTFKENENGNTVQRCD SEQ ID NO:5

In this embodiment the HIS tag placed at the N-terminus. Similar to SEQ ID NO:4, the HIS tag is optional and therefore a variant of SEQ ID NO: 5 can include that peptide sequence without the HIS tag.

Also, SEQ ID NO:5 includes the modified amino acid sequence of omega-ACTX-Hvla, i.e. having a K34Q substitution as discussed above and as provided in SEQ ID NO:2.

The location of omega-ACTX-Hvla at the N-terminus relative to GNA in FUSP can have a greater pesticide effect, hence this arrangement is a preferred embodiment of the invention.

Therefore a preferred embodiment of the invention is wherein the GNA peptide is located at the C-terminus of the omega- ACTX-Hvl a protein toxin, such as the FUSP arrangements: NH ₂ -(omega-ACTX-Hvla: GNA)-COOH with SEQ ID NO:6:

ASPTCIPSGQPCPYNENCCSQSCTFKENENGNTVKRCDAAADNILYSGETLSTGEFL NY GSFVFIMQEDCNLVLYDVDKPIWATNTGGLSRSCFLSMQTDGNLVVYNPSNKPIWAS NTGGQNGNYVCILQKDRNVVIYGTDRWATG SEQ ID NO:6

NH ₂ -(omega-ACTX-Hvla: GNA: HIS)-COOH with SEQ ID NO:7:

ASPTCIPSGQPCPYNENCCSQSCTFKENENGNTVKRCDAAADNILYSGETLSTGEFL NY GSFVFIMQEDCNLVLYDVDKPIWATNTGGLSRSCFLSMQTDGNLVVYNPSNKPIWAS NTGGQNGNYVCILQKDRNVVIYGTDRWATGVDHHHHHH SEQ ID NO:7

In this embodiment the HIS tag placed at the C-terminus. Similar to SEQ ID NO:4, the HIS tag is optional.

NH ₂ -(MODIFIED omega-ACTX-Hvla: GNA)-COOH with SEQ ID NO:8:

ASPTCIPSGQPCPYNENCCSQSCTFKENENGNTVQRCDAAADNILYSGETLSTGEFL NY GSFVFIMQEDCNLVLYDVDKPIWATNTGGLSRSCFLSMQTDGNLVVYNPSNKPIWAS NTGGQNGNYVCILQKDRNVVIYGTDRWATG SEQ ID NO: 8

Also, SEQ ID NO:8 includes the modified amino acid sequence of omega-ACTX-Hvla, i.e. having a K34Q substitution as discussed above and as provided in SEQ ID NO:2. NH ₂ -(MODIFIED omega-ACTX-Hvla: GNA: HIS)-COOH with SEQ ID NO:9:

ASPTCIPSGQPCPYNENCCSQSCTFKENENGNTVQRCDAAADNILYSGETLSTGEFL NY GSFVFIMQEDCNLVLYDVDKPIWATNTGGLSRSCFLSMQTDGNLVVYNPSNKPIWAS NTGGQNGNYVCILQKDRNVVIYGTDRWATGHHHHHH SEQ ID NO:9

In this embodiment the HIS tag placed at the C-terminus. FUSP with in SEQ 10 NO:9 is a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention SEQ ID NOs 1 to 9 have been copied from WO 2012/131302 Al, in case of a typo or discrepancy the version of the sequences as published in WO 2012/131302 Al prevails.

Preferably, FUSP comprises the amino acid sequence of any of SEQ ID NOs 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 9.

Preferably, the omega-ACTX-Hvla protein toxin is linked to the N-terminus of the protein capable of mediating translocation of FUSP from the invertebrate gut.

Preferably, FUSP comprises the amino acid sequence of any of SEQ ID NOs 6, 7, 8 or 9.

FUSP may be presented as a substantially purified form or preparation. By "purified" is meant that FUSP has been at least partially separated from other components in the presence of which it has been formed, for example other components of a recombinant cell. Methods of purification are known to the skilled person.

The form or preparation of FUSP may be substantially pure. By "substantially pure" it is

meant that the FUSP is substantially free of other proteins. Thus, any form or preparation of FUSP is included that includes at least 30% of the protein content by weight as FUSP , preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 70%, still more preferably at least 90% and most preferably at least 95% of the protein content is FUSP, based on the total weight of the form or preparation of FUSP.

Thus, FUSP includes compositions comprising the said FUSP and a contaminant wherein the contaminant comprises less than 70% of the composition by weight, preferably less than 50% of the composition, more preferably less than 30% of the composition, still more preferably less than 10% of the composition and most preferably less than 5% of the composition by weight.

The invention also includes the substantially pure FUSP when combined with other

components ex vivo, said other components not being all of the components found in the cell in which said polypeptides are found. Methods for preparation for FUSP are known.

Preferably, the active ingredient is metaldehyde.

Preferably, the composition has the form of a homogeneous mixture of its components. The acrylamide based polymer, in the sense of the invention, is selected from the group consisting of polyacrylamide, copolymer of acrylic acid and acrylamide, and mixtures thereof.

Polyacrylamide can be a non- ionic, a cationic or a anionic polyacrylamide, preferably it is a non-ionic or a cationic polyacrylamide; more preferably it is a non-ionic polyacrylamide.

Preferably, the wax based on polyethylene glycol or polypropylene glycol as alcohol

component have as acid component a carboxylic acid; the carboxylic acid is preferably a C9-26 fatty acid;

more preferably, the wax based on polyethylene glycol or polypropylene glycol as alcohol component are polyethylene glycol mono stearate or polyethylene glycol mono oleate.

Preferably, the disintegrant is acrylamide based polymer, sodium salt of polymerized alkyl naphthalene sulfonic acid, or a mixture thereof.

Additionally to any other components, the composition can comprise a bulking agent;

the bulking agent is selected from the group consisting of phyllosihcate, calcium carbonate, silica, starch, limestone, and mixtures thereof.

Phyllosilicates can be clays and clay minerals. Examples are kaolin, bentonite and their

components kaolinite and montmorillonite. One type of kaolin is commercially available under the name "bolus alba". The preferred phyllo silicate is kaoline.

Starch can be used as such or as pregelatinised starch, preferably as pregelatinised starch.

Preferably, the bulking agent is selected from the group consisting of phyllosihcate, calcium carbonate, limestone, and mixtures thereof.

Preferably, the composition comprises the active ingredient, the disintegrant and the bulking agent; also in combination with the embodiments of these three components.

In one more preferred embodiment the composition comprises the active ingredient

metaldehyde, the disintegrant acrylamide based polymer, sodium salt of polymerized alkyl naphthalene sulfonic acid or a mixture of acrylamide based polymer and sodium salt of polymerized alkyl naphthalene sulfonic acid, and the bulking agent phyllosilicate, calcium carbonate, limestone, or mixtures thereof;

more preferably, the composition comprises the active ingredient metaldehyde, the

disintegrant acrylamide based polymer, and the bulking agent phyllosilicate, calcium carbonate or mixtures thereof;

even more preferably, the composition comprises the active ingredient metaldehyde, the

disintegrant acrylamide based polymer, and the bulking agent phyllosilicate.

Additionally to any other components, the composition can comprise a wetting agent;

the wetting agent is water or polyvinyl alcohol, preferably the wetting agent is water.

More preferably, the composition comprises the active ingredient, the disintegrant, the bulking agent and the wetting agent; also in combination with the embodiments of these four components.

In one more preferred embodiment the composition comprises the active ingredient

metaldehyde, the disintegrant acrylamide based polymer, sodium salt of polymerized alkyl naphthalene sulfonic acid or a mixture of acrylamide based polymer and sodium salt of polymerized alkyl naphthalene sulfonic acid, the bulking agent phyllosilicate, calcium carbonate, limestone, or mixtures thereof, and the wetting agent.

In one especial embodiment, the composition comprises the active ingredient metaldehyde, the disintegrant acrylamide based polymer, the bulking agent phyllosilicate or calcium carbonate, and the wetting agent water.

In another especial embodiment, the composition comprises the active ingredient

metaldehyde, the disintegrant sodium salt of polymerized alkyl naphthalene sulfonic acid, the bulking agent phyllosilicate, limestone, or mixtures thereof, and the wetting agent polyvinyl alcohol.

Additionally to any other components, the composition can comprise an additive;

the additive is selected from the group consisting of sodium propionate, magnesium stearate, nicotinamide, sodium bicarbonate, and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the additive is selected from the group consisting of sodium propionate, magnesium stearate, sodium bicarbonate, and mixtures thereof.

In another preferred embodiment, the composition comprises the active ingredient

metaldehyde, the disintegrant acrylamide based polymer, and the bulking agent phyllosilicate, calcium carbonate or mixtures thereof, and the additive sodium propionate, magnesium stearate or mixtures thereof;

in a more preferably, the composition comprises the active ingredient metaldehyde, the

disintegrant acrylamide based polymer, the bulking agent phyllosilicate, and the additive sodium propionate.

In another more preferred embodiment, the composition comprises the active ingredient

metaldehyde, the disintegrant acrylamide based polymer, and the bulking agent phyllosilicate, calcium carbonate or mixtures thereof, the additive sodium propionate, magnesium stearate or mixtures thereof, and the wetting agent water;

in a more preferably, the composition comprises the active ingredient metaldehyde, the

disintegrant acrylamide based polymer, the bulking agent phyllosilicate, the additive sodium propionate, and the wetting agent water. Additionally to any other components, the compositions can comprise known anti mold

agents, such as C _1-10 alkyl isothiazolinon, 2-butyl-l,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one, phenoxy ethanol, zinc pyrithion and the like.

Preferably, the C _1-10 alkyl isothiazolinon is a C _1-10 alkyl 4-isothiazolin-3-on, more preferably it is selected from the group consisting of methylisothiazolinon, butylisothiazolinon, and octylisothiazolinon.

Further known anti mold agents are published in the book Microbicides for the Protection of

Materials, edited by W. Paulus, Springer; 2005 edition.

The additive sodium propionate shows also anti mold activity.

Preferably, the composition comprises

the active ingredient in an amount of from 7 to 60 wt%, the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition. More preferably, the composition, when it comprises metaldehyde, comprises metaldehyde in an amount of from 7 to 55 wt%, the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition.

Embodiments of the possible ranges of the amount of metaldehyde are: 7.5 to 52.5 wt%, 7.5 to 32.5 wt% and 7.5 to 25 wt% of metaldehyde, the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition.

More preferably, the composition, when it comprises iron(III) phosphate, comprises iron(III) phosphate in an amount of from 5 to 15 wt%, the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition.

More preferably, the composition, when it comprises metaldehyde and iron(III) phosphate, comprises metaldehyde in an amount of from 10 to 25 wt% and iron(III) phosphate in an amount of from 5 to 15 wt%, the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition.

More preferably, the composition, when it comprises niclosamide, comprises niclosamide in an amount of from 15 to 30 wt%, the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition. More preferably, the composition, when it comprises niclosamide ethanolamine salt,

comprises niclosamide ethanolamine salt in an amount of from 15 to 30 wt%, the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition.

More preferably, the composition, when it comprises iron(III) pyrophosphate, comprises

iron(III) pyrophosphate in an amount of from 10 to 30 wt%, the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition.

More preferably, the composition, when it comprises saponin, comprises saponin in an amount of from 17.5 to 52.5 wt%, the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition.

More preferably, the composition, when it comprises FUSP, comprises FUSP in an amount of from 20 to 30 wt%, the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition.

Preferably, the composition comprises the disintegrant in an amount of from 5 to 80 wt%, the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition.

Preferably, when a bulking agent is present in the composition, then the composition

comprises the bulking agent in an amount of from 1 to 70 wt%, the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition.

Preferably, when an additive agent is present in the composition, then the composition

comprises the additive in an amount of from 1 to 15 wt%, the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition.

Preferably, when a wetting agent is present in the composition, then the composition

comprises the wetting agent in an amount of from 0.5 to 75 wt%;

more preferably, when a wetting agent is present in the composition, then the composition comprises the wetting agent in an amount of from 20 to 75 wt% in case the wetting agent is water, or in an amount of from 0.5 to 3 wt% in case the wetting agent is polyvinyl alcohol, the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition.

Preferably, the composition comprises

the active ingredient in an amount of from 7.5 to 52.5 wt%,

the disintegrant in an amount of from 0.5 to 20 wt%,

the bulking agent in an amount of from 7.5 to 70 wt%,

the wetting agent in an amount of from 0.5 to 70 wt%;

the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition.

More preferably, the composition comprises

the active ingredient in an amount of from 7.5 to 32.5 wt%,

the disintegrant, in case that the disintegrant is acrylamide based polymer, in an amount of from 5 to 20 wt%, or

the disintegrant in case that the disintegrant is sodium salt of polymerized alkyl naphthalene sulfonic acid, in an amount of from 0.5 to 2 wt%,

the bulking agent, in case that the disintegrant is acrylamide based polymer, in an amount of from 7.5 to 30 wt%, or the bulking agent, in case that the disintegrant is sodium salt of polymerized alkyl naphthalene sulfonic acid, in an amount of from 25 to 70 wt%,

the wetting agent, in case that the wetting is water, in an amount of from 20 to 75 wt%, or the wetting agent, in case that the wetting is s polyvinyl alcohol, in an amount of from 0.5 to 3 wt%;

the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition,

In an even more preferred embodiment, the composition comprises

the active ingredient in an amount of from 7.5 to 32.5 wt%,

the disintegrant as acrylamide based polymer in an amount of from 5 to 20 wt%,

the bulking agent in an amount of from 7.5 to 30 wt%,

the wetting agent as water, in an amount of from 20 to 75 wt%;

the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition. In another even more preferred embodiment, the composition comprises

the active ingredient in an amount of from 7.5 to 32.5 wt%,

the disintegrant as sodium salt of polymerized alkyl naphthalene sulfonic acid in an amount of from 0.5 to 2 wt%,

the bulking agent in an amount of from 25 to 70 wt%,

the wetting agent as polyvinyl alcohol in an amount of from 0.5 to 3 wt%;

the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition.

In an especially preferred embodiment, the composition comprises

the active ingredient in an amount of from 10 to 30 wt%,

the disintegrant as acrylamide based polymer in an amount of from 7 to 17 wt%,

the bulking agent in an amount of from 10 to 30 wt%,

the wetting agent as water, in an amount of from 25 to 55 wt%;

the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition. In an especially preferred embodiment, the composition comprises

the active ingredient in an amount of from 10 to 30 wt%,

the disintegrant as acrylamide based polymer in an amount of from 7 to 17 wt%,

the bulking agent in an amount of from 10 to 30 wt%,

the wetting agent as water, in an amount of from 25 to 55 wt%; the additive, preferably as sodium propionate, in an amount of from 5 to 10 wt%; the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition.

In an especially preferred embodiment, the composition contains

the active ingredient in an amount of from 7.5 to 32.5 wt%,

the disintegrant as acrylamide based polymer in an amount of from 5 to 20 wt%,

the bulking agent in an amount of from 7.5 to 30 wt%,

the wetting agent as water, in an amount of from 20 to 75 wt%;

the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition, and the amount of the

components relative to each other is chosen in such a way that the wt% add up to 100%.

In an especially embodiment, the composition contains

the active ingredient in an amount of from 7.5 to 32.5 wt%,

the disintegrant as sodium salt of polymerized alkyl naphthalene sulfonic acid in an amount of from 0.5 to 2 wt%,

the bulking agent in an amount of from 25 to 70 wt%,

the wetting agent as polyvinyl alcohol in an amount of from 0.5 to 3 wt%;

the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition, and the amount of the

components relative to each other is chosen in such a way that the wt% add up to 100%.

In an especially preferred embodiment, the composition contains

the active ingredient in an amount of from 10 to 30 wt%,

the disintegrant as acrylamide based polymer in an amount of from 7 to 17 wt%,

the bulking agent in an amount of from 10 to 30 wt%,

the wetting agent as water, in an amount of from 25 to 55 wt%;

the additive, preferably as sodium propionate, in an amount of from 5 to 10 wt%;

the wt% being based on the total weight of the composition, and the amount of the

components relative to each other is chosen in such a way that the wt% add up to 100%.

Further possible ranges of the amounts of the components in the compositions are shown in Table 4, preferred ranged are those of the compositions Kal, Ka2, Cal, G1A, GIB, G1C and G1D. Table 4

CO AI [g] BA [g] DI [g] ADD [g] WA [g]

Kal Meta 10 Kaoline 10 FA920 6.17 SP 1 W 26 to to to to to

49 26 12.55 14 62.5

KaFel Meta 12.1 Kaoline 12.1 FA920 7.25 SP 6.1 w 23.2 to to to to to

23.2 23.2 15.15 11.6 48.5

FeP0 ₄ 6.1

to

11.6

Ka2 Meta 10 Kaoline 10 FO4490 6.17 SP 5 w 62.5 to to to

49 26 12.55

Nil Nicl 23.19 Kaoline 23.19 FA920 7.26 SP 11.5 w 34.78

Ni2 NiclEt 23.19 Kaoline 23.19 FA920 7.26 SP 11.5 w 34.78

Pal Meta 10 — FA920 12.5 SP 5 w 72.5

Pa2 Meta 10 — FO4490 12.5 SP 5 w 72.5

Cal Meta 10 CaCOs 10 FA920 6.17 SP 1 w 26 to to to to to

49 26 12.55 14 62.5

Sil Meta 10 Silica 10 FA920 12.5 SP 5 w 51.6 to to to to to

12.9 12.9 16.13 6.45 62.5

Stl Meta 7 Stygel 1.75 FA920 7 ... w 30 to to to

28 17.5 54.25

2A Meta 20 — MC 78 MgSt 2 ... ...

4A Meta 20 CaCOs 20 MC 58 MgSt 2 ... ...

8A Meta 20 CaCOs 40 MC 38 MgSt 2 ... ...

10A Meta 20 CaCOs 70 MC 8 MgSt 2 ... ...

W1A Meta 50 ... ... Peg400 50 ... ... ...

W1B Meta 50 ... ... Peg50 50 ... ... ...

G1A Meta 30 LS 38 Dar670 1 — PVA 1

Kaoline 27

Sipernat 1

GIB Meta 30 LS 38 Dar670 1 NA 2 PVA 1

Kaoline 27

Sipernat 1

G1C Meta 30 LS 38 Dar670 1 NaBI 2 PVA 1

Kaoline 27 Sipernat 1

ID Meta 30 LS 65 Dar670 1 NA 2 PVA 1

Sipernat 1 NaBI 2

Preferably, the compositions Kal, Ka2, Cal, WIA, WIB, GIA, GIB, GIC and GID in Table 4 can contain FePP or a combination of Meta and FePP instead of the active ingredient stated in Table 4.

Further subject of the invention is a method for preparation of the molluscicidal compositions, the method comprises a premixing of the components to provide a premixture and comprises a shaping of a premixture of the components, with the molluscicidal compositions as defined herein, also with all its embodiment.

The shaping is preferably done by pressing or cutting or first pressing and then cutting a

premixture of the components into shape.

In case that a wetting agent is part of the composition, the wetting agent can be mixed with the other components in the premixing providing the premixture, or a first premixture is prepared by mixing the components except for the wetting agent, and then the wetting agent is mixed with the first premixture to provide a second premixture containing the wetting agent, this second premixture then is pressed or cut into shape. If the composition is damp or moist after the shaping then the composition is dried after shaping. This can be especially the case when a wetting agent is part of the composition. The final

compositions are dry.

Preferably, the mixing is done in such a way that any premixture and any composition

obtained from the premixture is a homogeneous mixture of the components.

For the mixing any known mixer can be used that is capable of mixing dry substances or that is capable of mixing pastes or doughs, this especially when a wetting agent is part of the composition. Possible mixers are for example extruders.

For the shaping by pressing or cutting any device can be used that is capable of pressing into shape a powder, a dough or a paste.

Preferably, the device used for mixing and shaping is a device that does both steps

simultaneously or at least consecutively, such as a granulating or pelleting device.

Examples suitable granulating or pelleting devices for both steps, the mixing and the shaping, are the commercially discs and drums as supplied by various manufacturers, such as Eirich. Good results are achieved using the devices termed Eirich mixer/granulator. Using these, it is possible to make do with small amounts of wetting agent and thus to reduce the time and energy required for drying.

Drying is preferably carried out at a low temperature to avoid decomposition of any

components, such as metaldehyde, which is heat-sensitive.

The final compositions are provided after the shaping and optionally the drying in form of cubes, granules, pellets, tablets, and the like.

Therefore another subject of the invention is composition as defined herein in form of cubes, granules, pellets, tablets.

The diameter or the longest dimension of the final compositions is preferably between 1 mm and 15 mm, more preferably 3 mm and 10 mm.

Further subject of the invention is the use of the molluscicidal composition for controlling aquatic snails and slugs, with the molluscicidal compositions as defined herein, also with all its embodiment.

This control is done by application of the compositions to the water surface.

Further subject of the invention is a method for controlling aquatic snails and slugs, wherein the molluscicidal compositions are applied to the water surface, with the molluscicidal compositions as defined herein, also with all its embodiment.

The controlling of aquatic snails and slugs is in particular done in fish ponds or paddy fields.

The compositions act by releasing the active substance while being submerged under the water and lying on the ground. Therefore the components of the compositions are chosen in such a way that the final compositions after shaping show a density of greater than 1 in order to sink after the application to the water surface to the ground.

The rate of application depends, inter alia, on the size of the pest population and is, as a rule, from 0.1 to 10 g /m ² , preferably 0.1 to 1 g/m ² (1 to 100 kg/ha, preferably, 1 to 10 kg/ha) based on the amount of active ingredient. Examples

Compositions

Table 1 gives the list of materials.

Table 1

Name Product Specification Description Source identifier

Meta Meta® > 98 wt% Lonza Ltd

Metaldehyde

2,4,6,8-

Tetramethyl-

1,3,5,7-tetraoxa- cyclooctane

FeP0 ₄ Iron (III) Fe: 29% white powder Sigma- phosphate Aldrich dihydrate Co. LLC FeP0 ₄ x 2H ₂ 0

FePP Fe ₄ (P ₂ 0 ₇ ) ₃ ; Iron content: Light Yellow to Sigma-

Diphosphoric 10.5 to 12.5% Very Dark Aldrich acid iron(III) Yellow and Co. LLC salt; Light Green to

Ferric Very Dark

pyrophosphate; Green

iron(III) and Yellow- pyrophosphate Green and

Green- Yellow

Crystals

Sap Saponin Sapogenin: Extracted from Sigma- 8 to 25% natural Aldrich resources Co. LLC

Nicl Niclosamide Appearance: Nantong

Light yellow Luosen powder; Chemical

Niclosamide: Co., Ltd.

>= 98.0%;

5-Chlorosalicylic

acid: <= 0.1%;

2-Chloro-4- nitro aniline:

<= 0.1%;

pH value: 6.0 to

9.0;

Moisture: <= 0.5%

NiclEt Niclosamide Appearance: Nantong ethanolamine Yellow uniform Luosen salt loose powder; Chemical

Niclosamide Co., Ltd. ethanolamine

salt: >= 98.0%;

Moisture: <= 1.0%;

pH value: 6.0 to

9.0

Kaoline Kaoline clay X-Ray Diffraction Appearance Sigma- Conforms to Structure (Color): Aldrich

Loss on Drying: White to Light Co. LLC

< 2.0 wt% Yellow

pH: 3.5 - 5.0 Appearance

(Form):

Powder

CaCOs Appearance Sigma- (Color): White; Aldrich Appearance Co. LLC (Form): Powder;

Solubility

(Turbidity): Clear;

Solubility

(Color):

Colorless;

Purity Titration

by EDTA:

>= 99.0 %

Silica Silica gel, high- pore size 60 Fluka

purity grade Angstrom;

220 to 240 mesh

35 to 75 micro

meter

Stygel Stygel T Pregelatinised Tongaat

Starch Hulett,

South Africa

LS Limestone 0.1 to 0.6 mm particle FOB

size Alabaster,

Al, US (Southern Clay Brick)

FA920 FA 920 SH; Form: powder; Non-ionic SNF

FLOPAM; MW: high polyacrylamide Floerger,

PAA France

FO4490 FO 4490 SH; Form: powder; Cationic SNF

FLOPAM; MW: very high polyacrylamide Floerger, PAA France

MC Methyl Loss on drying Acros cellulose; <= 1.5 %; Organics microcrystalline, Residue after (as average particle ignition <= 0.05 Thermo size 50 micro %; Fisher meter Heavy metals (as Scientific

Pb) <= 10 ppm; Inc.) pH 5 to 7;

Particle size <= 1 % (> 250

micrometer),

<= 30 % (> 75

micrometer),

>=50 % (> 32

micrometer);

Appearance (Color):

White

Appearance (Form):

Crystalline powder

Infrared spectrometry:

Authentic

Peg400 Pegosperse 400 Acid Value: 10 polyethylene Lonza Ltd

DS Max.; glycol mono

Saponification oleate;

Value: 115 to 125%; nonionic and

Moisture: 1 compatible

Max.; with

Color, Gardner cationic,

1963: 1 Max.; amphoteric,

Melting Point: anionic, and

33°C; nonionic

Appearance at surface active

25°C: Solid; agents

pH (5%): 5

HLB: 8

Peg50 Pegosperse 50 Acid Value: 5; polyethylene Lonza Ltd

MS Saponification glycol mono

Value: 180 to stearate;

190%; nonionic

Moisture: 0.5; and compatible

Color, Gardner with cationic,

1963: 2 Max.; amphoteric,

Appearance at anionic, and

25°C: Beads; nonionic

pH (5%): 5.8; surface

HLB (hydrophilic- active agents

lipophilic balance): 2

Dar670 DARVAN® Color, Gardner, Composition: Vanderbilt

670 1% Solution: Sodium salts Minerals,

4 maximum; of polymerized LLC pH, 1% Solution: alkyl

8.0 to 10.5; naphthalene

Total Solids : sulfonic acids

92.0% minimum;

Moisture Physical State:

Content: Amber powder

8.0% maximum

Sipernat SIPERNAT® Specific surface (highly disperse Evonik

22 LS area (N ₂ ): 175 precipitated Industries m ² /g; silica AG Mean particle size: 3

micro

meter;

Particle size, d50:

8 micro meter;

Tamped density:

70 g/1;

Loss on drying:

6%;

Loss on ignition:

5%;

pH value: 6.2;

DBP absorption:

265 g / 100 g;

Si02 content:

98%;

Na content as Na ₂ 0:

1%;

Fe content as Fe ₂ 0 ₃ :

0.03%;

Sulfate content as S03:

0.8%;

Sieve residue 45

micro meter

Spray: 0.0%

SP Sodium Appearance Sigma- propionate (Color): Aldrich

CH ₃ CH ₂ COONa White; Co. LLC

Appearance

(Form):

Powder;

Solubility

(Color):

Colorless to

Very Faint

Yellow;

Solubility

(Turbidity):

Clear 1 g/ml,

H ₂ 0;

Titration with

HC10 ₄ :

> 99.0%

MgSt Mg-stearate Titration Appearance Acros

3.8 to 5.0% Mg Complexometric (Color): White Organics

3.8 to 5.0 % to almost white (as (Mg) On dried Appearance Thermo substance; (Form): Powder Fisher GC >=40.0 % Infrared Scientific relative content of spectrometry: Inc.) stearic acid, Authentic >=90.0 % rel. content of

stearic and palmitic acid;

Loss on drying

<= 6 % (1 g,

105°C);

Heavy metals (as

Pb) <= 40 ppm,

Cd <= 3 ppm,

Ni <= 5 ppm,

Pb <=10 ppm;

Cl <= 1000 ppm;

S0 ₄ <=1 %

NA Nicotinamide; content >= 98 %; White powder; Lonza Ltd

Niacinamide pH: 6.0 to 7.5 technical

(50g/L; 20°C) quality

NaBI NaHCOs NH ₄ : <= 5 ppm; Sigma-

Appearance Aldrich Co.

(Color): White; LLC

Appearance

(Form): Powder;

Content: 99.7 to

100.3%;

Ca: <= 0.02%;

CI: <= 0.003%;

Heavy Metals:

<= 5 ppm;

Insoluble

Matter:

<= 0.015%;

Fe: <= 0.001%;

Mg: <= 0.005%;

P0 ₄ : <= 0.001%;

K: <= 0.005%

W Water Deionized Lonza Ltd water

PVA SELVOL™ E Viscosity (cps): Sekisui

103; 3.5 - 4.5; Chemical

Polyvinyl Degree of Co., Ltd alcohol Hydrolysis Mol

%: 98.0 - 98.8;

Ash wt%: 1.2

Max.;

Volatile wt %:

5.0 Max.;

pH: 5.0 - 7.0;

Methanol wt%:

0.9 Max;

VOC wt%: 1.0

Max Preparation of Compositions

If not stated otherwise, the compositions were prepared in the following manner:

The active ingredient, bulking agent, disintegrant, and additive (as was the case and as indicated in table 2) were premixed in the respective quantities to yield a homogenous premixture. The resulting premixture was either directly pressed and/or cut in shape into shape, or optionally the premixture was mixed with a wetting agent to yield a homogenous mixture that was subsequently pressed and/or cut in shape.

Mixing was done in a beaker and shaping was done either with a cake form or by pressing the mixture through a nozzle and then cutting into shape.

Table 2 shows the details of the different compositions.

Table 2

CO AI [g] BA [g] DI [g] ADD [g] WA [g]

1 Meta 10 Kaoline 10 FA920 12.5 SP 5 W 62.5

2 Meta 26.23 Kaoline 26.2 FA920 8.2 SP 13.11 w 26.23

3 Meta 20.51 Kaoline 20.5 FA920 12.82 SP 5.13 w 41.03

4 Meta 28.07 Kaoline 28.0 FA920 8.78 SP 7.02 w 28.07

5 Meta 24.62 Kaoline 24.6 FA920 7.69 SP 6.15 w 36.92

6 Meta 18.18 Kaoline 36.3 FA920 5.45 SP 3.64 w 36.36

7 Meta 26.67 Kaoline 26.6 FA920 4.00 SP 2.67 w 40.00

8 Meta 34.09 Kaoline 22.7 FA920 3.41 SP 5.68 w 34.09

9 Meta 34.09 Kaoline 22.7 FO4490 3.41 SP 5.68 w 34.09

10 Meta 44.12 Kaoline 14.7 FA920 4.41 SP 7.35 w 29.41

11 Meta 44.12 Kaoline 14.7 FO4490 4.41 SP 7.35 w 29.41

12 Meta 40.82 Kaoline 20.4 FA920 3.06 SP 5.10 w 30.61

13 Meta 40.82 Kaoline 20.4 FO4490 3.06 SP 5.10 w 30.61

14 Meta 12.90 Kaoline 12.9 FA920 16.13 SP 6.45 w 51.61

15 Meta 12.90 Kaoline 12.9 FO4490 16.13 SP 6.45 w 51.61

16 Meta 19.51 Kaoline 19.5 FA920 12.20 SP 9.76 w 39.02 Meta 19.51 Kaoline 19.5 FO4490 12.20 SP 9.76 W 39.02

Meta 45.45 Kaoline 22.7 FA920 5.68 SP 5.68 W 34.09

Meta 45.45 Kaoline 22.7 FO4490 5.68 SP 5.68 w 34.09

Meta 58.82 Kaoline 14.7 FA920 7.35 SP 7.35 w 44.12

Meta 58.82 Kaoline 14.7 FO4490 7.35 SP 7.35 w 44.12

Meta 42.11 Kaoline 14.0 FA920 8.77 SP 7.02 w 28.07

Meta 42.11 Kaoline 14.0 FO4490 8.77 SP 7.02 w 28.07

Meta 56.14 FA920 8.77 SP 7.02 w 28.07

Meta 56.14 FO4490 8.77 SP 7.02 w 28.07

Meta 43.84 Kaoline 10.9 FA920 6.85 SP 5.48 w 32.88

Meta 43.84 Kaoline 10.9 FO4490 6.85 SP 5.48 w 32.88

Meta 49.38 Kaoline 9.88 FA920 6.17 SP 4.94 w 29.63

Meta 49.38 Kaoline 9.88 FO4490 6.17 SP 4.94 w 29.63

Meta 12.64 Kaoline 12.6 FA920 15.80 SP 6.32 w 50.57

NA 2.02

Meta 12.64 Kaoline 12.6 FO4490 15.80 SP 6.32 w 50.57

NA 2.02

Meta 12.64 Kaoline 12.6 FA920 15.80 SP 6.32 w 50.57

NaBI 2.02

Meta 12.64 Kaoline 12.6 FO4490 15.80 SP 6.32 w 50.57

NaBI 2.02

Meta 12.1 Kaoline 12.1 FA920 15.15 SP 11.6 w 48.5 FeP0 ₄ 6.1

Meta 22.38 Kaoline 22.3 FO4490 10.49 SP 11.19 w 33.56

Meta 26.23 Kaoline 26.2 FO4490 8.21 SP 13.11 w 26.23

Meta 17.39 Kaoline 17.3 FO4490 10.87 SP 8.70 w 34.78 CaCOs

10.8

Meta 15.53 Kaoline 31.0 FO4490 9.71 SP 7.77 w 31.07 CaCOs

4.85 85 Meta 12.1 Kaoline 12.1 FA920 15.15 SP 11.6 W 48.5

FePP 6.1 CaCOs 5.5

Pool Tests - Study of Diffusion Kinetics

Diffusion rate of the active ingredient in water for the different compositions was determined in a static test setup comprising of a water pool of a defined length and a defined water height. The tested compositions was put in place at the center of the pool. Samples were taken at predefined and fixed sample points in a distance of 25, 50, and 75 cm from the center of the pool. Values given in the tables are the average of 4 different samples taken at 2 different sample points, these two different sample points had the same radial distance to the right and to the left of the composition. The amount of sample that was present in each experiment was adjusted to the total content of active ingredient in the respective composition to have an equal amount of active ingredient present in each experiment.

The results of the tested compositions with respect to their release of active ingredient are summarized in table 3. The performance of these different compositions was compared to the state of the art Lonza molluscicidal product J-LON-5, which is currently available on the market as snail and slug bait. J-LON-5 contains ca. 95 wt% of corn flour and 5 wt% of Meta as active ingredient.

The commercial product J-LON-5, that was used as comparative example in these release experiments, was also compared to a composition J-LON-5-LAB, that contained the same components as the commercial product J-LON-5, but that was prepared in the same way as the tested compositions of the instant invention. J-LON-5 -LAB showed the same release behavior of Meta as J-LON-5.

Table 3

Time Meta concentration [mg/L] from sample position at

CO

[h] 25 cm 50 cm 75 cm

J-LON-5 0 0 0 0

1 0 0 0

8 0 0 0.02

24 1.78 0.43 0.18

72 2.06 3.68 2.26

120 5.01 5.45 2.84

168 7.36 10.28 6.85

240 13.10 12.27 12.65

336 20.28 17.84 16.15

14 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0

8 0 0 0

24 0.05 0.08 0.30

72 0.56 0.67 0.75

120 0.85 0.68 0.63

168 1.95 1.60 1.57

240 1.82 2.00 2.08

336 2.12 1.93 1.83

0 0 0 0

1 0.40 0.05 0.01

8 0.50 0.54 0.73

24 1.10 1.63 1.09

72 1.35 1.24 1.65

120 1.64 1.56 1.45

168 2.29 1.99 1.84

240 2.18 2.13 2.03

336 2.10 1.89 1.83

0 0 0 0

1 0.09 0 0

8 0.52 0.44 0

24 0.98 0.77 0.70

72 1.25 1.32 1.21

120 2.04 2.16 2.45

168 1.95 1.75 1.99

240 2.53 2.97 2.44

336

0 0 0 0

1 0.08 0.07 0

8 0 0.07 0.12

24 0.19 0.25 0.64

72 1.39 1.51 1.68

120 2.49 2.56 2.86

168 2.86 3.29 3.41

240 4.17 4.11 4.07

336

0 0 0 0

1 0 0 0

8 0.16 0 0

24 0.12 0.27 0.20

72 0.94 0.75 2.11

120 1.46 1.17 1.17

168 2.81 1.40 1.24

240 3.16 2.58 2.43

336 3.77 3.27 3.28

0 0 0 0

1 0.13 0 0

8 0.98 0.32 0.32

24 2.16 1.48 1.42

72 3.60 3.14 3.23 120 2.80 2.13 1.92

168 2.19 2.49 1.96

240 5.01 4.56 3.91

336 4.88 4.69 4.26

58 0 0 0 0

1 0 0 0

8 0 0 0

24 0 0 0

72 0.24 0.28 0.28

120 0.91 0.94 0.78

168 1.16 1.17 1.24

240 1.00 1.26 1.35

336 1.39 1.41 1.26

Preparation of Compositions with an Extruder

Materials used:

Extruder BTSK 20/40D, Buhler AG, Switzerland

Kaoline anhydrous, free flowing, Redi-Dri™, Sigma-Aldrich, 765453

Sodium propionate >= 99.0%: Sigma-Aldrich, PI 880

Preparation of a premix:

250 g of FA920, 1375 g of Kaoline, 125 g of sodium propionate and 750 g of Meta, all in powder form, were mixed to provide a homogeneous powder.

Extrusion

This homogeneous powder was charged continuously with a screw feeder into the extruder while separately from but simultaneously with the homogeneous powder charging water into the extruder at such a rate that the pressure in the extruder could be maintained between 48 and 69 bar. The temperature in the extruder was between 58 to 75 °C.

The product was extruded through a nozzle with a diameter of 2 mm and was cut by rotating baldes into pellets of defined length of 3 to 4 mm.

The pellets were dried under air atmosphere at ambient temperature.

Content of Meta in the pellets was about 30 wt%. Sequence Listing Free Text

SEQUENCE LISTING <110> Lonza Ltd

<120> MOLLUSCICIDAL COMPOSITIONS

<130> LP2500PC00

<160> 9

<170> Patentln version 3.5 <210> 1

<211> 37

<212> PRT

<213> Artificial Sequence <220>

<223> Synthetic construct

<400> 1 Ser Pro Thr Cys lie Pro Ser Gly Gin Pro Cys Pro Tyr Asn Glu Asn 1 5 10 15

Cys Cys Ser Gin Ser Cys Thr Phe Lys Glu Asn Glu Asn Gly Asn Thr

20 25 30

Val Lys Arg Cys Asp

35 <210> 2

<211> 37

<212> PRT

<213> Artificial Sequence

Synthetic construct <400> 2

Ser Pro Thr Cys He Pro Ser Gly Gin Pro Cys Pro Tyr Asn Glu Asn 1 5 10 15

Cys Cys Ser Gin Ser Cys Thr Phe Lys Glu Asn Glu Asn Gly Asn Thr

20 25 30

Val Gin Arg Cys Asp

35

<210> 3

<211> 105

<212> PRT

<213> Artificial Sequence <220>

<223> Synthetic construct

<400> 3

Asp Asn He Leu Tyr Ser Gly Glu Thr Leu Ser Thr Gly Glu Phe Leu 1 5 10 15 Asn Tyr Gly Ser Phe Val Phe He Met Gin Glu Asp Cys Asn Leu Val 20 25 30

Leu Tyr Asp Val Asp Lys Pro He Trp Ala Thr Asn Thr Gly Gly Leu

35 40 45

Ser Arg Ser Cys Phe Leu Ser Met Gin Thr Asp Gly Asn Leu Val Val 50 55 60

Tyr Asn Pro Ser Asn Lys Pro He Trp Ala Ser Asn Thr Gly Gly Gin 65 70 75 80

Asn Gly Asn Tyr Val Cys He Leu Gin Lys Asp Arg Asn Val Val He

85 90 95

Tyr Gly Thr Asp Arg Trp Ala Thr Gly

100 105

<210> 4

<211> 153

<212> PRT

<213> Artificial Sequence

<220>

<223> Synthetic construct <400> 4 Asp Asn He Leu Tyr Ser Gly Glu Thr Leu Ser Thr Gly Glu Phe Leu 1 5 10 15

Asn Tyr Gly Ser Phe Val Phe He Met Gin Glu Asp Cys Asn Leu Val

20 25 30

Leu Tyr Asp Val Asp Lys Pro He Trp Ala Thr Asn Thr Gly Gly Leu

35 40 45

Ser Arg Ser Cys Phe Leu Ser Met Gin Thr Asp Gly Asn Leu Val Val 50 55 60

Tyr Asn Pro Ser Asn Lys Pro He Trp Ala Ser Asn Thr Gly Gly Gin 65 70 75 80

Asn Gly Asn Tyr Val Cys He Leu Gin Lys Asp Arg Asn Val Val He

85 90 95

Tyr Gly Thr Asp Arg Trp Ala Thr Gly Ala Ala Ala Ser Pro Thr Cys

100 105 110

He Pro Ser Gly Gin Pro Cys Pro Tyr Asn Glu Asn Cys Cys Ser Gin

115 120 125

Ser Cys Thr Phe Lys Glu Asn Glu Asn Gly Asn Thr Val Lys Arg Cys 130 135 140 Asp Val Asp His His His His His His

145 150

<210> 5

<211> 151

<212> PRT

<213> Artificial Sequence

<220>

<223> Synthetic construct <400> 5

His His His His His His Asp Asn lie Leu Tyr Ser Gly Glu Thr Leu 1 5 10 15

Ser Thr Gly Glu Phe Leu Asn Tyr Gly Ser Phe Val Phe lie Met Gin

20 25 30

Glu Asp Cys Asn Leu Val Leu Tyr Asp Val Asp Lys Pro lie Trp Ala

35 40 45

Thr Asn Thr Gly Gly Leu Ser Arg Ser Cys Phe Leu Ser Met Gin Thr 50 55 60

Asp Gly Asn Leu Val Val Tyr Asn Pro Ser Asn Lys Pro lie Trp Ala 65 70 75 80 Ser Asn Thr Gly Gly Gin Asn Gly Asn Tyr Val Cys He Leu Gin Lys

85 90 95

Asp Arg Asn Val Val He Tyr Gly Thr Asp Arg Trp Ala Thr Gly Ala

100 105 110

Ala Ala Ser Pro Thr Cys He Pro Ser Gly Gin Pro Cys Pro Tyr Asn

115 120 125

Glu Asn Cys Cys Ser Gin Ser Cys Thr Phe Lys Glu Asn Glu Asn Gly 130 135 140

Asn Thr Val Gin Arg Cys Asp

145 150

<210> 6

<211> 146

<212> PRT

<213> Artificial Sequence <220>

<223> Synthetic construct

<400> 6

Ala Ser Pro Thr Cys He Pro Ser Gly Gin Pro Cys Pro Tyr Asn Glu 1 5 10 15 Asn Cys Cys Ser Gin Ser Cys Thr Phe Lys Glu Asn Glu Asn Gly Asn 20 25 30

Thr Val Lys Arg Cys Asp Ala Ala Ala Asp Asn He Leu Tyr Ser Gly

35 40 45

Glu Thr Leu Ser Thr Gly Glu Phe Leu Asn Tyr Gly Ser Phe Val Phe 50 55 60

He Met Gin Glu Asp Cys Asn Leu Val Leu Tyr Asp Val Asp Lys Pro 65 70 75 80

He Trp Ala Thr Asn Thr Gly Gly Leu Ser Arg Ser Cys Phe Leu Ser

85 90 95

Met Gin Thr Asp Gly Asn Leu Val Val Tyr Asn Pro Ser Asn Lys Pro

100 105 110

He Trp Ala Ser Asn Thr Gly Gly Gin Asn Gly Asn Tyr Val Cys He

115 120 125

Leu Gin Lys Asp Arg Asn Val Val He Tyr Gly Thr Asp Arg Trp Ala 130 135 140

Thr Gly

145 <210> 7

<211> 154

<212> PRT

<213> Artificial Sequence

Synthetic construct <400> 7

Ala Ser Pro Thr Cys lie Pro Ser Gly Gin Pro Cys Pro Tyr Asn Glu 1 5 10 15

Asn Cys Cys Ser Gin Ser Cys Thr Phe Lys Glu Asn Glu Asn Gly Asn

20 25 30

Thr Val Lys Arg Cys Asp Ala Ala Ala Asp Asn lie Leu Tyr Ser Gly

35 40 45

Glu Thr Leu Ser Thr Gly Glu Phe Leu Asn Tyr Gly Ser Phe Val Phe 50 55 60

lie Met Gin Glu Asp Cys Asn Leu Val Leu Tyr Asp Val Asp Lys Pro 65 70 75 80

lie Trp Ala Thr Asn Thr Gly Gly Leu Ser Arg Ser Cys Phe Leu Ser

85 90 95 Met Gin Thr Asp Gly Asn Leu Val Val Tyr Asn Pro Ser Asn Lys Pro 100 105 110

lie Trp Ala Ser Asn Thr Gly Gly Gin Asn Gly Asn Tyr Val Cys lie

115 120 125

Leu Gin Lys Asp Arg Asn Val Val lie Tyr Gly Thr Asp Arg Trp Ala 130 135 140

Thr Gly Val Asp His His His His His His

145 150

<210>

<211> 146

<212> PRT

<213> Artificial Sequence

<220>

<223> Synthetic construct <400>

Ala Ser Pro Thr Cys lie Pro Ser Gly Gin Pro Cys Pro Tyr Asn Glu 1 5 10 15

Asn Cys Cys Ser Gin Ser Cys Thr Phe Lys Glu Asn Glu Asn Gly Asn

20 25 30

Thr Val Gin Arg Cys Asp Ala Ala Ala Asp Asn lie Leu Tyr Ser Gly 35 40 45

Glu Thr Leu Ser Thr Gly Glu Phe Leu Asn Tyr Gly Ser Phe Val Phe 50 55 60

He Met Gin Glu Asp Cys Asn Leu Val Leu Tyr Asp Val Asp Lys Pro 65 70 75 80

He Trp Ala Thr Asn Thr Gly Gly Leu Ser Arg Ser Cys Phe Leu Ser

85 90 95

Met Gin Thr Asp Gly Asn Leu Val Val Tyr Asn Pro Ser Asn Lys Pro

100 105 110

He Trp Ala Ser Asn Thr Gly Gly Gin Asn Gly Asn Tyr Val Cys He

115 120 125

Leu Gin Lys Asp Arg Asn Val Val He Tyr Gly Thr Asp Arg Trp Ala 130 135 140

Thr Gly

145

<210> 9

<211> 152

<212> PRT

<213> Artificial Sequence <220 >

<223> Synthetic construct <400 > 9

Ala Ser Pro Thr Cys He Pro Ser Gly Gin Pro Cys Pro Tyr Asn Glu 1 5 10 15

Asn Cys Cys Ser Gin Ser Cys Thr Phe Lys Glu Asn Glu Asn Gly Asn

20 25 30

Thr Val Gin Arg Cys Asp Ala Ala Ala Asp Asn He Leu Tyr Ser Gly

35 40 45

Glu Thr Leu Ser Thr Gly Glu Phe Leu Asn Tyr Gly Ser Phe Val Phe 50 55 60

He Met Gin Glu Asp Cys Asn Leu Val Leu Tyr Asp Val Asp Lys Pro 65 70 75 80

He Trp Ala Thr Asn Thr Gly Gly Leu Ser Arg Ser Cys Phe Leu Ser

85 90 95

Met Gin Thr Asp Gly Asn Leu Val Val Tyr Asn Pro Ser Asn Lys Pro

100 105 110

He Trp Ala Ser Asn Thr Gly Gly Gin Asn Gly Asn Tyr Val Cys He 115 120 125

Leu Gin Lys Asp Arg Asn Val Val He Tyr Gly Thr Asp Arg Trp Ala 130 135 140

Thr Gly His His His His His His