Biotechnology companies tracked by BioWorld raised $309.1million through public offerings in February, bringing to $995.8million the total raised in the public markets this year.

Univax Biologics Inc. and EcoScience Corp. raised $76.6 millionin initial public offerings in February, bringing the total IPOfunds raised by 11 companies this year to $481.8 million.Seven companies have filed for offerings that would be worthabout $231 million if completed.

Six companies raised $232.5 million in secondary offerings lastmonth, bringing total secondary funds raised this year to $514million. Seven pending offerings could raise about $234 millionbased on Friday's closing prices.

The industry raised about $1.1 billion in IPOs and $2.1 billionin secondary offerings in 1991. -- Karen Bernstein

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