Active Ingredient and Mode of Action
Asataf contains Acephate at a high 75 percent concentration in soluble powder form, belonging to the aliphatic organophosphate chemical group (IRAC Group 1B). Upon contact or ingestion, Acephate is metabolized by target insects into methamidophos.
This active metabolite irreversibly inhibits the essential enzyme acetylcholinesterase at nerve synapses. The resulting toxic accumulation of acetylcholine neurotransmitters produces continuous nervous stimulation, muscle convulsions, paralysis, and rapid pest mortality.
- Active Molecule: Acephate 75% SP (Soluble Powder).
- IRAC Group: Group 1B organophosphate acetylcholinesterase inhibitor.
- Dual Action Routes: Functions as both a contact poison and a systemic stomach poison.
- Acro-Petal Systemic Uptake: Absorbed rapidly by green foliage and translocated upward into new shoots.
Target Crops and Insect Pest Spectrum
In cotton, Asataf is an industry standard for managing devastating early-season sucking pests including aphids, jassids (leafhoppers), thrips, and whiteflies, while controlling early larval instars of bollworms.
In paddy, it provides excellent control against stem borers, leaf folders, and plant hoppers. It is also approved for use in vegetables, oilseeds, and pulses to combat defoliating caterpillars and sucking insect complexes.
- Cotton Sucking Pests: Effectively suppresses jassids, aphids, thrips, and whiteflies on foliage.
- Paddy Stem Borer & Leaf Folder: Penetrates leaf sheaths to suppress internal stem borer and leaf folder larvae.
- Vegetable Crops: Controls leafminers, caterpillars, and aphids in chillies, tomatoes, and pulses.
- Residual Action: Provides 10 to 14 days of residual crop protection against re-infestation.
Application Guidelines and Operator Safety
Dissolve Asataf 75% SP thoroughly in clean water and apply using a calibrated knapsack or tractor-mounted sprayer. Ensure complete foliage coverage, directing the spray toward the underside of leaves where sucking pests feed.
Because organophosphates present occupational hazards if mishandled, operators must wear protective clothing, rubber gloves, and vapor respirators. Adhere strictly to CIBRC-mandated label rates, avoid spraying during windy conditions, and observe official pre-harvest intervals.
- Sprayer Calibration: Use hollow-cone nozzles for fine droplet dispersion across plant canopies.
- Avoid Tank Mix Conflicts: Avoid mixing with strongly alkaline chemicals or Bordeaux mixture.
- Personal Protection: Wear personal protective equipment to prevent dermal absorption and inhalation.
- Pre-Harvest Interval: Observe statutory waiting periods between final spray and crop harvest.
Official source
Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.
Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIBRC) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the active chemical molecule in Asataf insecticide?
Asataf contains Acephate 75% SP (soluble powder), an organophosphate insecticide with systemic and contact activity.
Which major pests does Asataf control in cotton?
Asataf controls major sucking pests such as aphids, jassids, thrips, and whiteflies, as well as bollworm caterpillars in cotton.
How does Asataf's systemic movement protect newly growing leaves?
Acephate is absorbed through leaf surfaces and translocated upward through xylem vessels, protecting newly emerging shoots that develop after spraying.
Where can farmers check certified application rates for Asataf?
Certified dosage rates, spray schedules, and safety instructions are printed on product container labels and registered on the official CIBRC portal.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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