Fenpropathrin: A Potent Pyrethroid Insecticide and Acaricide
Technical Introduction
Fenpropathrin (IUPAC: α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl 2,2,3,3-tetramethylcyclopropanecarboxylate) is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide and acaricide widely used for crop protection.
It works by disrupting sodium channel function in insect nerve cells, leading to continuous nerve excitation, paralysis, and death.
Mode of Action: Sodium channel modulator (IRAC Group 3A).
Systemicity: Non-systemic; acts by contact and ingestion.
Target Spectrum: Effective against mites, aphids, leafhoppers, caterpillars, beetles, whiteflies, and thrips.
Applications
Field Crops:
Widely used on cotton, maize, soybeans, and wheat to control chewing and sucking pests.
Fruit and Vegetables:
Applied on citrus, apples, grapes, tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers against mites, thrips, and caterpillars.
Tea and Ornamentals:
Effective for mite and leafhopper control.
Stored Product Protection:
Sometimes used to control beetle infestations in stored grains.
Advantages
Broad-Spectrum Activity: Kills both insects and mites, reducing the need for multiple products.
Fast Knockdown Effect: Provides rapid pest mortality after application.
Residual Protection: Offers several days to weeks of protection depending on crop and environment.
Flexible Use: Compatible with foliar sprays and suitable for a wide range of crops.
Resistance Management: Effective against pests resistant to organophosphates or carbamates.
Specifications (Typical Parameters)
| Parameter | Description | Typical Value |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Fenpropathrin | |
| Chemical Class | Synthetic Pyrethroid (IRAC 3A) | |
| Chemical Formula | C₂₂H₂₃NO₃ | |
| Molecular Weight | ~349.4 g/mol | |
| Appearance | Yellow-brown viscous liquid | |
| Purity (TC) | ≥ 90% | |
| Common Formulations | Emulsifiable concentrate (EC), suspension concentrate (SC), emulsions | 10% EC, 20% SC, 30% EC |
| Mode of Action | Sodium channel modulator; contact and stomach poison | |
| Target Pests | Mites, aphids, thrips, caterpillars, beetles, leafhoppers | |
| Residual Activity | 5–15 days depending on crop and conditions | |
| Toxicity | Moderate mammalian toxicity (oral LD₅₀ in rats ~50–200 mg/kg); highly toxic to bees, fish, and aquatic organisms |
FAQ
Q1: How does Fenpropathrin kill pests?
A: It modulates sodium channels in insect nerve membranes, causing overstimulation, paralysis, and death.
Q2: Is Fenpropathrin systemic?
A: No. It is a non-systemic insecticide, working mainly by contact and ingestion.
Q3: Can Fenpropathrin control mites as well as insects?
A: Yes. It is both an acaricide and insecticide, making it valuable for crops prone to mite infestations.
Q4: How long does Fenpropathrin remain active in the field?
A: Residual protection lasts 5–15 days, depending on environmental factors.
Q5: Is Fenpropathrin safe for beneficial insects?
A: No. It is highly toxic to bees, aquatic life, and natural enemies, so application should avoid flowering periods and water bodies.
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