Overview: Natural Microbial Products
Harnessing Nature to Fight Invasive Species
Safe & Effective Mussel Control
Zequanox® is a breakthrough molluscicide that targets invasive zebra and quagga mussels at all life stages without harming other aquatic life. Unlike harsh chemical treatments, Zequanox offers an environmentally safe solution with minimal risk to workers, equipment, or ecosystems.
It works in both open and enclosed water systems, requiring only a six-hour application time. With no discharge restrictions and no impact on water quality, Zequanox stands out among control methods for its safety, efficiency, and low regulatory barriers. It's the smart choice for water managers seeking sustainable mussel control.
Targeted Invasive Fish Control
Piscamycin™ is a selective solution for controlling invasive fish like carp, helping restore balance to aquatic ecosystems. Derived from the natural compound Antimycin A, Piscamycin is produced through fermentation and exclusively licensed by ISC from the USGS. ISC is actively partnering with the USGS to re-register Piscamycin with the EPA, improve its formulation, and develop innovative delivery methods, including species-specific baits and low-dose applications.
Backed by decades of proven results, Piscamycin enables effective fish control with minimal harm to native species or non-target organisms.
Discover. Develop. Deploy.
Partner with Us to Discover Nature-Based Solutions for Invasive Species Control
Microbe Engine is Invasive Species Corporation’s science-driven platform that leverages natural microbes and artificial intelligence to discover safe, effective, and environmentally friendly solutions to control aquatic and terrestrial invasive species.
How It Works
Genomics & AI-Guided Discovery
We use DNA sequencing and machine learning to identify microbes with pesticidal properties hidden in nature’s biodiversity.Natural Product-Based Fermentation
Through natural fermentation, we cultivate and extract the most effective microbial compounds for field applications.High-Throughput Testing & Formulation
Our platform rapidly screens microbial solutions on weeds and pests, formulates effective treatments, and prepares them for scalable production.Regulatory, Field Trials & Manufacturing
With experience in EPA registration and robust third-party partnerships, we ensure smooth regulatory navigation and efficient manufacturing.
Our Process Optimizes Performance
Identify which natural compounds cause pesticidal activity
Use gene sequencing to predict compound production (even unexpressed genes)
Isolate synergistic combinations of compounds for maximum impact
Remove any strains that produce known toxic byproducts
Optimize fermentation to maximize efficacy
Develop quality control assays based on key bioactive ingredients
Continuously refine compound potency and consistency
A Proven Team with Vision
Pam Marrone (Executive Chair of the Board) and Jim Boyd (CEO and President) – Industry pioneers with multiple successful startups and deep manufacturing expertise
Dr. Amit Vasavada (Chief Science Officer) – Former CTO at Marrone Bio Innovations with extensive experience in natural product discovery and development
Expertise in: Fermentation, formulation, natural product chemistry, manufacturing, regulatory pathways, and market partnerships
Trusted network of partners – From sourcing to marketing, we collaborate with leaders in AI, biotech, and environmental solutions
Why the Microbe Engine Matters
Sustainable – A natural alternative to fossil fuel–based chemicals
Untapped Potential – Most of nature’s biodiversity remains unexplored
Safe for Ecosystems – Our products are historically registered for organic use and have low environmental impact
Regenerative – Controls both existing invasives and prevents new establishment, restoring land and aquatic health
Versatile – Works across diverse habitats and species
Ready to Take on Invasive Species?
Whether it’s aquatic invaders like quagga mussels or persistent terrestrial weeds, our microbe engine offers a scalable, natural, and effective solution—developed by experts and backed by science.
Get in touch to explore partnerships, trials, or custom applications.
