Active chemistry and neurotoxic mode of action
Thiamethoxam interferes with insect central nervous system neurotransmission.
- Chemical Group: Neonicotinoid (Thianicotinyl - IRAC Group 4A).
- Mode of Action: Binds to post-synaptic nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR), causing continuous nerve excitation, convulsions, paralysis, and death.
- Xylem Systemic Mobility: Rapidly absorbed by roots, seeds, and leaves, moving acropetally to protect newly expanding leaves and shoots.
- Vigor Effect: Demonstrates physiological plant vigor benefits, stimulating deeper rooting and greener foliage under mild environmental stress.
Approved crops and target sucking pest spectrum
Registered under CIBRC label directives across major field, horticultural, and plantation crops.
- Cotton: Jassids (leafhoppers), aphids, and whiteflies.
- Rice (Paddy): Green leafhopper, brown plant hopper (BPH), and stem borer.
- Vegetables: Aphids and whiteflies in tomato, brinjal, okra (bhendi), and potato.
- Chilli: Thrips causing leaf curling and upward cupping.
- Citrus: Citrus psylla, the primary vector of greening disease.
- Tea: Mosquito bug, thrips, and jassids.
Application practices, soil drenching, and safety
Adhering to proper application methods protects crops while preserving non-target pollinators.
- Foliar Spray: Apply at early nymph infestation using calibrated hollow-cone nozzles and clean water.
- Soil Drenching / Nursery Application: Apply as a soil drench around transplanting holes for extended early-season systemic protection.
- Pollinator Protection: Highly toxic to bees; strictly avoid spraying during active foraging hours and flowering bloom periods.
- Pre-Harvest Interval: Adhere to the approved pre-harvest interval (PHI) printed on the product packaging before harvesting produce.
Official source
Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.
Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee (CIBRC) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the active chemical in Actara insecticide?
Actara contains Thiamethoxam 25% WG (Water Dispersible Granules), a systemic neonicotinoid insecticide.
Can Actara be applied as a soil drench?
Yes, Actara has excellent root uptake and can be applied as a soil drench or seedling dip to provide long-lasting systemic protection against early sucking pests.
Is Actara safe for honeybees?
No, Thiamethoxam is toxic to honeybees and other pollinators; never spray Actara on crops during active flowering.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
More Crop Protection & Pesticides guides
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