Chlorantraniliprole is a systemic insecticide belonging to the anthranilic diamide class. It is widely used in agriculture and horticulture for controlling a variety of insect pests across a broad range of crops. It has gained popularity for its effectiveness against pests while being relatively safe for humans, animals, and beneficial insects when used according to guidelines.
This insecticide works by targeting the ryanodine receptors in the muscles of insects, disrupting calcium ion regulation, which leads to paralysis and eventually the death of the insect. Its selective action ensures that it is toxic to pests but has a lower toxicity to non-target organisms like mammals, birds, and pollinators.
How Does Chlorantraniliprole Work?
Chlorantraniliprole acts by disrupting the normal muscle function in pests. In insects, it binds to ryanodine receptors, which are essential for muscle contraction. This interference causes an excessive release of calcium ions inside the muscle cells, leading to muscle paralysis and, eventually, death. As a systemic insecticide, chlorantraniliprole is absorbed by the plant and distributed through its vascular system. This allows the insecticide to protect both the leaves and roots of the plant, providing long-lasting protection.
Chlorantraniliprole Insecticide Uses
Chlorantraniliprole is used in various agricultural and horticultural applications to control numerous pests. Some of its key uses include:
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Crops:
- Corn: Controls pests like corn rootworm and fall armyworm.
- Soybeans: Effective against pests like soybean caterpillar and leafhoppers.
- Fruit Trees: Controls pests like codling moth, leafrollers, and fruit flies.
- Vegetables: Targets pests like cabbage worm and tomato hornworm.
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Turfgrass:
- Used to control white grubs, root-feeding pests, and billbugs that damage lawns and golf courses.
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Greenhouse and Nursery Plants:
- Controls pests such as thrips, mealybugs, and whiteflies.
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Forestry:
- Used to protect trees from pests like pine beetles and borers.
Advantages of Chlorantraniliprole
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Long-Lasting Control: Due to its systemic nature, chlorantraniliprole provides long-term protection against pests. It is absorbed by the plant and continues to protect it from pests for weeks after application.
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Broad Spectrum: Effective against a wide range of pests, including caterpillars, beetles, and root-feeding insects, making it versatile for many agricultural systems.
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Selective Toxicity: It targets pests without harming beneficial organisms like bees, predators, or pollinators when used according to recommendations. This selective toxicity is one of its key benefits in integrated pest management (IPM).
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Low Environmental Impact: Chlorantraniliprole has a relatively low toxicity to mammals, birds, and aquatic organisms, making it safer for the environment when compared to other chemical insecticides.
How Long Does Chlorantraniliprole Last?
Chlorantraniliprole has a long residual activity, typically lasting several weeks depending on factors such as weather conditions, plant type, and pest pressure. Its systemic action allows it to stay active in the plant for a long period, offering continuous protection. However, its effectiveness can decrease if it is exposed to heavy rainfall or irrigation, so reapplication may be necessary in those conditions.
Is Chlorantraniliprole Safe for Humans and Animals?
Chlorantraniliprole is considered to have low toxicity to humans and animals when used according to labeled instructions. It is classified as Category III (low toxicity) for acute oral and dermal toxicity. However, as with all pesticides, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines and use personal protective equipment (PPE) during application to minimize exposure.
Additionally, because it has low toxicity to non-target organisms, it is generally safe for beneficial insects like honeybees when used appropriately.
Mode of Action of Chlorantraniliprole
Chlorantraniliprole is classified as a ryanodine receptor modulator. It specifically targets the ryanodine receptors in the muscle cells of insects, causing an overload of calcium in the cells, which results in muscle paralysis and death. This mechanism of action is highly specific to insects and minimizes the impact on non-target species, making it a safer choice for integrated pest management.
Conclusion
Chlorantraniliprole is a powerful, broad-spectrum insecticide that provides effective, long-lasting control of a variety of agricultural pests. Its systemic action, selective toxicity, and low environmental impact make it a preferred choice for many agricultural and horticultural applications. Whether you’re dealing with pests in crops, turf, or greenhouses, chlorantraniliprole can help protect your plants while minimizing risks to beneficial insects and the environment.
Post time: Feb-27-2025
