Active ingredient and neurotoxic mode of action
Alpha-cypermethrin belongs to the Type-II synthetic pyrethroid class (IRAC Group 3A). It modifies sodium channels in insect nerve membranes, causing prolonged sodium ion influx that triggers repetitive nerve firings, muscle twitches, rapid knockdown, and paralysis within minutes of contact or ingestion.
- Active constituent: Alpha-cypermethrin 10% EC (emulsifiable concentrate)
- Chemical group: Type-II synthetic pyrethroid (IRAC Group 3A)
- Quick knockdown: Immediate knockdown and anti-feeding repellent action
Target crops and major chewing pests
- Cotton: American bollworm, spotted bollworm, and pink bollworm.
- Soybean and pulses: Semiloopers, pod borers (Helicoverpa armigera), and leaf miners.
- Vegetables: Fruit and shoot borer in brinjal, diamondback moth in cabbage, and fruit borer in tomato.
Application guidelines and beneficial insect care
Apply when pest larvae are in their early instars before they bore into fruits or bolls. Because synthetic pyrethroids are toxic to honeybees and fish, never spray during crop blooming hours or near surface water bodies. Always adhere to CIBRC approved label dosages and pre-harvest intervals.
Official source
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Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the difference between cypermethrin and alphamethrin?
Alphamethrin contains the purified, most active stereoisomers of cypermethrin, providing higher insecticidal potency at lower dosage rates.
How does Alphamethrin knock down insect pests so fast?
It disrupts nerve membrane sodium channels, triggering instantaneous paralytic nerve failure upon contact.
Why should Alphamethrin not be sprayed during daytime blooming?
Synthetic pyrethroids are toxic to bees and pollinators; spraying should be restricted to late evenings when bees are not foraging.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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