Emamectin Benzoate: A Potent Biological-Derived Insecticide
Technical Introduction
Emamectin Benzoate is a semi-synthetic derivative of avermectin, produced by fermentation of Streptomyces avermitilis. It is highly effective against chewing Lepidopteran pests and acts primarily as a nerve poison, causing paralysis and death in target insects.
Mode of Action: Activates glutamate-gated chloride channels in the insect nervous system (IRAC Group 6, avermectins).
Systemicity: Primarily a contact and ingestion insecticide, with some translaminar activity.
Target Spectrum: Effective against caterpillars, leaf miners, bollworms, armyworms, and other Lepidopteran larvae.
Applications
Field Crops:
Controls Helicoverpa spp., Spodoptera spp., and Plutella xylostella in cotton, maize, soybean, and rice.
Vegetables:
Applied on tomatoes, cabbage, peppers, and eggplants to manage chewing pests.
Ornamentals & Horticulture:
Protects greenhouse crops from caterpillars and leaf-feeding larvae.
Forestry & Plantations:
Used against defoliating pests in fruit orchards and tea plantations.
Advantages
High Potency: Extremely effective at low application rates.
Selective Activity: Targets chewing pests while being safer for beneficial insects and pollinators.
Translaminar Movement: Provides protection for new leaves after application.
IPM Friendly: Can be rotated with other modes of action to delay resistance development.
Low Mammalian Toxicity: Safer for humans and animals under proper handling.
Specifications (Typical Parameters)
| Parameter | Description | Typical Value |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Emamectin Benzoate | |
| Chemical Class | Avermectin derivative (IRAC 6) | |
| Chemical Formula | C₄₈H₇₃NO₁₄·C₆H₅COO | |
| Molecular Weight | ~1008.2 g/mol | |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder | |
| Purity (TC) | ≥ 95% | |
| Common Formulations | Water-dispersible granules (WG), emulsifiable concentrates (EC), soluble powders (SP) | 5% WG, 1.9% EC |
| Mode of Action | Activates glutamate-gated chloride channels; contact and ingestion | |
| Target Pests | Caterpillars, bollworms, armyworms, leaf miners | |
| Residual Activity | 7–14 days depending on crop and pest pressure | |
| Toxicity | Low mammalian toxicity (oral LD₅₀ in rats >5000 mg/kg); relatively safe for bees when applied correctly |
FAQ
Q1: How does Emamectin Benzoate kill pests?
A: It activates glutamate-gated chloride channels, causing paralysis, feeding cessation, and eventual death.
Q2: Is Emamectin Benzoate effective against sucking pests?
A: No. It is highly effective against chewing Lepidopteran pests only.
Q3: Can it be used in IPM programs?
A: Yes. Its selective activity and low toxicity to beneficial insects make it suitable for integrated pest management.
Q4: What crops benefit most from Emamectin Benzoate?
A: Cotton, vegetables, rice, and orchards benefit the most due to its strong effect on caterpillars and leaf-feeding larvae.
Q5: Is it safe for humans and animals?
A: Yes. It has low mammalian toxicity, but proper PPE and handling instructions must be followed.
Free Consultation
Name*
E-Mail*
TEL
Message*