Mode of action and systemic mobility
- Active ingredient: Thiamethoxam 25% WG (water dispersible granules) belonging to IRAC Group 4A.
- Target receptor: Agonist of insect nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR), blocking nerve transmissions and leading to rapid paralysis and death.
- Dual xylem mobility: Rapidly absorbed by roots, foliage, and stem tissues, translocating acropetally to protect newly emerging tender shoots.
- Extended residual protection: Provides 2 to 3 weeks of protection, suppressing pest resurgence and honeydew-producing insects.
Target pests and registered crop applications
- Rice (paddy): Brown planthopper (BPH), white-backed planthopper (WBPH), and green leafhopper.
- Cotton: Jassids, aphids, and whiteflies during vegetative growth.
- Mango: Mango hoppers infesting inflorescence panicles and tender leaves during pre-flowering.
- Tomato, brinjal and okra: Aphids, jassids, and whiteflies transmitting viral mosaic diseases.
Application timing, dosage and pollinator safety
Apply at early economic threshold levels using recommended water volume for thorough foliage wetting. Thiamethoxam is toxic to honeybees; avoid spraying during active daytime honeybee foraging and flowering periods. Always follow CIB&RC label dilution rates, observe the Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI), and wear protective gloves and face masks.
Official source
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Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee (CIB&RC) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the active ingredient in Syngenta Actara?
Actara contains Thiamethoxam at 25% WG (water dispersible granules).
How does Actara protect rice crops from planthoppers?
Actara is absorbed systemically into rice stems and vascular bundles, killing feeding brown and white-backed planthoppers while preventing hopper burn.
Can Actara be sprayed during crop flowering?
Avoid spraying during peak crop flowering and active bee foraging hours, as neonicotinoids are toxic to honeybees.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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