Monsanto acquires targeted-pest control technology start-up Beeologics

Biotech major Monsanto Company has acquired Beeologics, which researches and develops biological tools to provide targeted control of pests and diseases. The company, however, did not disclose the terms of the deal.

Beeologics is focused on biological research and its current projects in its pipeline include a product candidate being developed to help protect bee health - using a naturally-occurring process to provide targeted pest and disease control.

Monsanto said the expertise Beeologics has developed would enable it to further explore the use of biologicals in agriculture. 

"Monsanto will use the base technology from Beeologics as a part of its continuing discovery and development pipeline. Biological products will continue to play an increasingly important role in supporting the sustainability of many agricultural systems," Monsanto said in a release,

Both companies expect their combined research to provide farmers with novel approaches to the challenges they face.

Monsanto will support the Beeologics team and its technology advisory board in advancing its pipeline. Beeologics' work to promote bee health will continue under Monsanto's ownership.

Monsanto is a leading global provider of technology-based solutions and agricultural products that improve farm productivity.

With offices and laboratories in the United States and Israel, Beeologics is dedicated to restoring bee health and protecting the future of insect pollination. The start-up is developing a line of products to specifically address the long-term well being of the bees.