Lambda-Cyhalothrin: A Potent Synthetic Pyrethroid for Broad-Spectrum Pest Control
Technical Introduction
Lambda-cyhalothrin (IUPAC: [1a(S),3a(Z)]-(±)-cyano-(3-phenoxyphenyl)methyl 3-(2-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-enyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropane-1-carboxylate*) is a second-generation synthetic pyrethroid insecticide widely used in agriculture, public health, and household pest control.
It is the gamma isomer of cyhalothrin, providing high potency even at very low doses. Its mode of action is as a sodium channel modulator (IRAC Group 3A). It disrupts the normal function of insect neurons, leading to paralysis and death.
Mode of Action: Sodium channel modulator.
Systemicity: Non-systemic; acts via contact and ingestion.
Target Spectrum: Broad-spectrum activity against chewing and sucking pests, including caterpillars, beetles, aphids, thrips, flies, mosquitoes, and ticks.
Applications
Agriculture:
Widely used on cotton, maize, rice, soybeans, wheat, potatoes, and vegetables against bollworms, stem borers, cutworms, leafhoppers, thrips, and beetles.
Fruits and Vegetables:
Used in tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, grapes, apples, and citrus.
Public Health:
Commonly used in mosquito control programs (malaria, dengue, Zika vectors).
Effective against flies, cockroaches, and bedbugs.
Veterinary and Household:
Incorporated in tick, flea, and fly control products for livestock and pets.
Advantages
High Potency: Effective at very low doses compared to older pyrethroids.
Fast Knockdown: Quickly paralyzes and kills pests after application.
Residual Activity: Protects crops and surfaces for up to 2–3 weeks, depending on conditions.
Broad Spectrum: Kills both chewing and sucking insect pests.
Versatile Formulations: Available in EC, CS (capsule suspension), WG (water-dispersible granules), and SC forms.
Cost Efficiency: Requires smaller doses, reducing overall application cost.
Specifications (Typical Parameters)
| Parameter | Description | Typical Value |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Lambda-cyhalothrin | |
| Chemical Class | Synthetic Pyrethroid (IRAC 3A) | |
| Chemical Formula | C₂₃H₁₉ClF₃NO₃ | |
| Molecular Weight | ~449.9 g/mol | |
| Appearance | Pale yellow to amber viscous liquid | |
| Purity (TC) | ≥ 95% | |
| Common Formulations | 2.5% EC, 5% EC, 10% CS, 25% WG | |
| Mode of Action | Sodium channel modulator; contact and stomach poison | |
| Target Pests | Bollworms, cutworms, borers, aphids, thrips, beetles, flies, mosquitoes, ticks | |
| Residual Activity | 10–21 days depending on crop and climate | |
| Toxicity | Moderate mammalian toxicity (oral LD₅₀ in rats ~56–79 mg/kg); highly toxic to fish, aquatic organisms, and bees |
FAQ
Q1: How does Lambda-cyhalothrin kill insects?
A: It prolongs sodium channel activation in nerve cells, leading to hyperexcitation, paralysis, and death.
Q2: Is Lambda-cyhalothrin systemic?
A: No. It is non-systemic, working through contact and ingestion.
Q3: How long does it last after spraying?
A: Residual effects typically last 10–21 days, depending on environmental factors.
Q4: What makes Lambda-cyhalothrin different from Cypermethrin?
A: Lambda-cyhalothrin is the more active isomer, requiring lower application doses and offering longer residual control.
Q5: Is it safe for beneficial insects?
A: No. It is toxic to bees, fish, and aquatic life. Applications should avoid flowering crops and water sources.
Q6: Can it be used in mosquito nets?
A: Yes. Lambda-cyhalothrin is widely used in insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) for malaria prevention.
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