Chemical profile and novel mode of action
- Active ingredient: Chlorfenapyr 10% SC (pyrrole chemical family, IRAC Group 13).
- Mode of action: Uncouples oxidative phosphorylation in insect mitochondria, preventing the generation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) cellular energy.
- Pro-insecticide nature: Activated inside the pest's body by mixed-function oxidases, ensuring high target-specific toxicity.
- Absence of cross-resistance: Unrelated to organophosphates, carbamates, neonicotinoids, or pyrethroids, making it a critical tool for managing resistant insect strains.
Target insect pests and registered crop applications
- Cabbage and Cauliflower: Controls diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) larvae resistant to conventional chemistries.
- Chilli: Controls yellow mites (Polyphagotarsonemus latus) and chilli thrips (Scirtothrips dorsalis).
- Tea plantations: Manages red spider mites, pink mites, and thrips on tender foliage.
- Translaminar mobility: Penetrates leaf surfaces quickly, providing lethal control of leaf-underside dwelling mites and caterpillars.
Application timing, spray calibration, and safety precautions
- Spraying schedule: Apply at early pest threshold infestation; ensure thorough coverage of lower leaf surfaces where mites and larvae shelter.
- Water volume: Use 150 to 200 litres of water per acre with fine hollow cone nozzles to achieve complete foliage wetting.
- Resistance management: Do not exceed two consecutive applications per season; alternate with different IRAC modes of action.
- Protective gear: Wear gloves, face mask, and eye shield; observe approved CIB&RC pre-harvest waiting periods.
Official source
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Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee (CIBRC) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is Chlorfenapyr used for in agriculture?
It is an insecticide and miticide used to control diamondback moth (DBM) in cole crops, mites in chilli and tea, and thrips.
How does Chlorfenapyr kill insect pests?
It disrupts cellular energy production by uncoupling oxidative phosphorylation in insect mitochondria, leading to rapid energy starvation.
Does Chlorfenapyr have cross-resistance with pyrethroids?
No, because it belongs to the pyrrole chemical class with a completely distinct mode of action.
What is translaminar activity in Chlorfenapyr?
It allows the active ingredient to penetrate from the upper leaf surface to the underside where mites and pests feed.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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